Banned Book-Themed Speakeasy Raises Funds for Libraries
Cocktails and banned books come together this week to raise awareness, funds for libraries, and spirits at a pop-up speakeasy in the Washington, D.C. area.
Libraries, Librarians, and Library Lovers Light Up C2E2
The Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo (C2E2) rolled into town April 11-13 and proved—once again—to be a haven for library lovers.
National Library Week Kicks Off with Release of New Book Censorship Data
The American Library Association kicked off National Library Week with the release of new data on book censorship in 2024 and the Top 10 Most Challenged Books List, which includes “All Boys Aren’t Blue,” by George M. Johnson, “Gender Queer,” by Maia Kobabe, “The Bluest Eye,” by Toni Morrison, and “The Perks of Being a Wallflower,” by Stephen Chbosky. The data shows that the majority of book censorship attempts now originate from organized movements.
U.S. Book Challenges Update: March 2025 Edition
Texas threatens jail time for school librarians who provide classic literature to students. “The Kite Runner” author speaks out about his book being banned in Minnesota schools. These are among the stories in our latest report on book bans and challenges happening across the U.S. and efforts to thwart them.
U.S. Book Challenges Update: February 2025 Edition
More than 500 books removed from schools in Tennessee. An Oscar-winning actor reacts to her book being banned. These are among the stories in our latest report on book bans and challenges happening across the U.S. and efforts to thwart them.
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.
