2023 has seen a steep rise in book bans and censorship in classrooms and school libraries across the United States. On October 4, during Banned Books Week, NYC's libraries are asking New Yorkers to join us to celebrate the freedom to read by sharing a meaningful book, sending a message against book bans and showing that NYC abhors censorship in all forms. Be sure to tag NYC libraries in your posts: @bklynlibrary, @nypl, @QPLNYC.
Instructions
- Take a picture of your favorite book or yourself holding it!
- Post the picture on your social media platform(s) of choice.
- Use #FreedomToRead to join fellow readers in New York and beyond in standing up against censorship and book banning.
Sample Posts
- This banned books week, I’m standing against censorship of all kinds and celebrating the right to read what I want. #FreedomtoRead
- I’m joining @bklynlibrary @nypl @QPLNYC to stand against book bans and censorship. I’m reading Pride and Prejudice, what are you reading? #FreedomToRead
Social Media Graphics
Don't have a picture to share? Use one of the social media graphics below.
Upcoming Events
Creative Writing Workshop Series for Teens with the Writers Guild Initiative
Calling all young writers! The Writers Guild Initiative and Brooklyn Public Library are partnering to offer creative writing workshops for teens in grades 9-12.
No writing experience is required. All participants need to have is a desire to write and explore their creativity, and a…
Teen Time: Unbanned Book Club--The Giver
We will discuss the book that some say birthed the dystopian movement: The Giver, by Lois LowryNo need to have read the book! We will discuss the plot and important points and freedom of information. SNACKS PROVIDED!We will watch some clips from the movie, too!
Intellectual Freedom Teen Meetup
Join to discuss intellectual freedom issues, your favorite books, and all-things BPL's Books Unbanned initiative. Connect with peers across the country and learn how you can support youth in protecting the right to read whatever they choose. Please register by 4 pm ET to receive a Zoom link…
Teen Time: Unbanned Book Club--Speak
We will discuss Speak by Laurie Halse AndersonNo need to have read the book! We will discuss the plot and important points and freedom of information. SNACKS PROVIDED!We will watch some clips from the movie, too!
Get Social with BPL
Educate Yourself!
- Youth Censorship Database: NCAC tracks book challenges in schools and libraries, as well as censorship of art, journalism, and other types of student expression in schools.
- Top 13 Most Challenged Books: ALA's Office for Intellectual Freedom compiles an annual list of the most challenged books.
- Library Bill of Rights: ALA affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that these basic policies should guide their services.
- BPL's Material Selection Policy: Learn more about how libraries like BPL make decisions about what gets on the shelves.