Freedom Walk: School Library Creates Interactive Program to Teach About Censorship
A school librarian in Texas created an award-winning interactive “Freedom Walk” to teach students and the community how censorship issues affect library access.
Author Pens Letter Urging School District to Reinstate Banned Book
Author Kyle Lukoff sent a letter this week to Escambia County (Fla.) School Board over its decision to remove his book, “Too Bright to See,” from its libraries because it features a transgender character. The letter was sent in tandem with a request from Penguin Random House and PEN America urging the district to reinstate the book and stop restricting students’ right to read.
‘How I Library’ Episode 13: Raj Tawney
In episode 13 of the “How I Library” podcast, show host and I Love Libraries editor Phil Morehart speaks with writer and journalist Raj Tawney about his new book, “All Mixed Up,” the semiautobiographical story of a multi-ethnic American boy who forges a complex friendship with a Pakistani immigrant in the wake of 9/11.
LeVar Burton Awarded National Humanities Medal for Work Championing Literacy
LeVar Burton, actor, director, author, and former host of “Reading Rainbow,” was honored this week with the National Humanities Medal for his acting and literacy advocacy work in a ceremony at the White House. Seventeen distinguished humanists and two humanities organizations were recognized at the event.
Take Action for the Freedom to Read This Weekend
It’s more important than ever to show support for local libraries and the freedom to read: Book bans and challenges in the U.S. reached an all-time high in 2023 and continue at an alarming rate. On Saturday, October 19, libraries, bookstores, readers, and partners across the U.S. will be hosting rallies and events to unite against book bans and demonstrate a shared commitment to this fundamental freedom.
Librarians Join Author Jodi Picoult to Speak Out Against Book Bans
Librarians across the U.S. joined author Jodi Picoult to spread the word about book bans during the writer’s recent book tour.
Celebrate Let Freedom Read Day with Beth Ferry’s ‘Roar for Reading’!
On Let Freedom Read Day, the last day of Banned Books Week, we’re spotlighting an amazing new picture book, “Roar for Reading” by Beth Ferry, illustrated by Andrew Joyner. In this special episode of the How I Library podcast, Ferry dives into the book’s inspiration and the ongoing battle against book banning.
“Roar for Reading” follows a brave little lion named Julius, who learns to speak up and “roar” against book bans. It’s a powerful, fun story for young readers that encourages them to use their voices to protect their favorite books. Ferry uses the acronym R.O.A.R. (Recognize, Organize, Act, Respect) to break down how kids and adults alike can stand up for the freedom to read.
In her interview with host Phil Morehart, Ferry talks about the real-world issue of book banning and why libraries are so important. She shares her hope that Roar for Reading helps kids understand what’s at stake and encourages empathy for others whose access to books is being limited.
Listen to the full episode and check out Beth’s read aloud of “Roar for Reading” on YouTube.
Let’s celebrate Freedom to Read Day with a roar!
The How I Library podcast is available for download or streaming on Soundcloud, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. Or listen below.
HowILibrary · Episode 10: Beth Ferry
The book’s publisher, Simon and Schuster, has an activity guide available to accompany Roar for Reading.
Love Andrew Joyner’s artwork in “Roar for Reading”? Check out the Roar for Reading poster and bookmarks available at the ALA Store.
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Beth Ferry is a New York Times bestselling author of numerous picture books for children including “Prunella” and “Stick and Stone.” She also writes chapter books and graphic novels.
Andrew Joyner is an Australian illustrator and cartoonist who lives in Strathalbyn, South Australia, with his family and nineteen pets.
Obama Celebrates Banned Books Week on Instagram
Barack Obama posted a special message on Instagram September 24 to commemorate Banned Books Week.
Preliminary Data on Book Challenges in 2024 Released
To kick off Banned Books Week, ALA released preliminary data documenting attempts to censor books and materials in libraries during the first eight months of 2024.
It’s Banned Books Week! Help Protect the Freedom to Read
It’s Banned Books Week, when libraries, schools, bookstores, groups, and individuals around the world—including Banned Books Week Honorary Chair filmmaker Ava DuVernay—call attention to censorship and ways to fight it. Here’s how you can get involved.
