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Join us for an examination of the current state of book challenges, Illinois’ legislative response, and the implications of censorship on communities. Co-hosted by multiple Chicago-area libraries.
“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. 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 program will not be recorded.
This Banned Books Week webinar, moderated by columnist Heidi Stevens, will share how to effectively support intellectual freedom. We will examine the current state of book challenges, Illinois’ legislative response, and the implications of censorship on communities with this 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 presentation is co-hosted by multiple Chicago-area libraries.
EVENT TYPE: | Teen Program | Adult Program |
Our mission is to provide you with open access to the world of information and ideas, encouraging lifelong learning and personal growth in a welcoming environment.
