Freedom to Read Teen Ambassadors

Freedom to Read Teen Ambassadors is a program where teens can become  advocates for intellectual freedom. Ambassadors learn how to fight censorship through civic engagement in their schools, libraries, and communities.  

Participants will learn how to defend and extend intellectual freedom. Additionally, ambassadors will provide feedback on programming related to BPL’s Books Unbanned initiative as well as meet authors, librarians, their peers, and others with experience combatting censorship. 

Why Join?
  • Learn how to be an effective intellectual freedom advocate in your local community.
  • Earn a certificate, a recommendation letter, and resume-boosting experience.
  • Support your peers in the fight for the freedom to read.
Requirements

The Freedom to Read Teen Ambassadors welcomes teens ages 14-19 who are interested in issues of book challenges, intellectual freedom, and anti-censorship advocacy. 

Responsibilities

Freedom to Read Teen Ambassadors must complete a four-day Freedom to Read Advocacy Institute. The next Institute is April 25-April 30, 2024. 

How to Join

Freedom to Read Advocacy Institutes are offered throughout the year. Questions? Send an email to Karen Keys at kkeys@bklynlibrary.org.  

Acknowledgements

The Freedom to Read Teen Ambassadors program is made possible through support by the Long Ridge Foundation and The Destina Foundation.

What Else?

BPL also offers a monthly Intellectual Freedom Teen Meetup on the third Tuesday of the month.

See all teen volunteer and internship opportunities.

Books Unbanned

Brooklyn Public Library joins those fighting for the rights of teens nationwide to read what they like, discover themselves, and form their own opinions.

Learn more