On Saturday, October 19, communities around the country will come together to host events, rallies, and other convenings that share positive, galvanizing messages about the power of libraries and the essential role they play in the functioning of democracy. The Freedom to Read Community Day of Action will unite readers everywhere in support of the freedom to read as a popular, nonpartisan, fundamental American right that is essential to supporting an informed citizenry. As of September 17, organizations in 26 states and the District of Columbia have signed up to host events and groups in 5 additional states have joined as social media partners.
The Freedom to Read Community Day of Action is being organized by the American Library Association (ALA) and their Unite Against Book Bans campaign, the Association for Rural and Small Libraries, and the Brooklyn, Queens and New York Public Libraries, in response to the record-breaking wave of book banning and censorship we have faced in recent years. Coordinated censorship attempts continue to impact schools and public libraries nationwide, threatening the First Amendment rights of all Americans.
The Freedom to Read Community Day of Action will elevate the voices of readers who believe that public and school libraries must remain safe havens of knowledge and community, and that the freedom to access books and information from diverse viewpoints is an essential American value which must be protected. As events unfold on Saturday, October 19, a social media campaign will provide an additional opportunity for supporters to use the hashtag #FreedomToRead to decry censorship and stand with their public and school libraries.
Libraries, bookstores, campuses, faith based organizations, and other community organizations—as well as readers everywhere!—are invited to visit the Freedom to Read Day of Action page to find resources for planning, promoting, and attending events on October 19, as well as ways to take further action to protect the freedom to read. Community organizations are encouraged to register their events with Unite Against Book Bans as soon as possible.
