Register

Book Challenges on the Rise - RO

Support Your Freedom to Read - Online

Learn to support intellectual freedom effectively. We will examine the current state of book challenges, Illinois’ legislative response, and the implications of censorship on communities.

“Freedom to Read” is a fundamental American right: your right to choose the ideas, information, and cultural experiences that are right for you and your family. That right is guaranteed by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. And your public library supports that right by providing free and open access to all.

Book bans infringe on that right. When people demand that libraries remove books, they deny you and others the right to choose. Those demands are happening at an unprecedented rate. The American Library Association (ALA) reports more book challenges in 2022 than any previous year.  

This webinar will be moderated by syndicated columnist Heidi Stevens and feature a panel of experts: 

• Alexi Giannoulias, Illinois Secretary of State and State Librarian
• Monica Harris, Executive Director, Reaching Across Illinois Library System
• Jasmine Warga, author of challenged books; The Shape of Thunder and Other Words for Home
• Jarrett Dapier, author of challenged picture books and freedom to read advocate

This program is proudly presented in partnership with multiple Illinois libraries. 

Upcoming events