On Saturday, October 19, libraries, bookstores, readers, and other partners nationwide are hosting rallies and community events to unite against book bans and demonstrate our shared commitment to this fundamental freedom. There are many ways you can take action as an individual, in your community, and online to help protect the freedom to read and become more informed about and engaged in democracy. Here are some suggestions!
- Check out the Unite Against Book Bans Action Toolkit which includes talking points for how to talk about book bans, ways to contact decision makers and media, social media tools, printable branded materials, ideas for grassroots organizing, and more!
- Here in Washington, tie your Freedom to Read activities with Washington Reads Freely, a project celebrating the freedom to read. A partnership of Washington State Library, Humanities Washington, and the Washington Center for the Book, you can share your story of what reading freely means to you in this survey! See what other people wrote from all over the state.
- Make your voice heard and take the Freedom to Read Pledge!
- Check out (and read!) a banned book. Browse our list of recently banned and challenged books nationwide that are in our catalog!
Share your favorite banned or challenged book online. Post about why you believe in the right to access diverse stories. Spread the word and celebrate the freedom to read!