This blog post is by Gianmarco Antosca, Youth Free Expression Program Coordinator with the National Coalition Against Censorship (NCAC), a Unite Against Book Bans partner.
The National Coalition Against Censorship (NCAC) is excited to announce new event planning resources for Right to Read Night, an easy-to-host, one-night book club designed to engage local networks in the fight to read freely. Our new step-by-step guide can help your community join this upcoming nationwide movement by organizing your very own Right to Read Night during Banned Books Week (October 5–11, 2025).
A National Call for Local Action
NCAC is calling on community organizations, libraries, faith groups, friends, and neighbors to pick a date during Banned Books Week and gather for a discussion of our featured banned book: Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson.
Just one of the thousands of books targeted by censors, Chains is a deeply moving novel that tells the story of an enslaved teenager’s struggle for freedom in the time of the American Revolution.
Community Conversations Matter
Community conversations are a powerful way to invite our neighbors to think about why books like Chains matter, what book banning means for free expression, and how to defend the right to read in your local libraries and schools.
Whether you’re a longtime activist or taking your first steps toward becoming an organizer, Right to Read Night is an opportunity to enjoy the company of old friends and meet some new friends, all while building relationships and skills to defend the freedom to read.
Plan Your Event Today
Visit RightToReadNight.com to learn how you can organize a Right to Read Night for your community. Here’s all you have to do to get started:
- Check your calendar! Pick a date and time during Banned Books Week (October 5-11).
- Find a co-host! This could be your local library, an indie bookstore, or any other community hub!
- Download our step-by-step hosting guide from RightToReadNight.com, featuring a media kit, assets, and discussion questions.
- Read the book! We’re all reading Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson.
- Host your event! Talk with your neighbors and community about Chains, learn about book banning, and discuss what you can do to fight for the freedom to read!
If you have questions or would like one-on-one support organizing your Right to Read Night, please contact the NCAC team. Let’s make this Banned Books Week an outpouring of support for the right to read—one living room, library, and community space at a time.
