The Library joins the American Library Association in reaffirming our commitment to the Freedom to Read Statement on its 70th anniversary:
“As censorship threats continue to target libraries, schools, publishers, authors, and booksellers, the American Library Association (ALA) and the Association of American Publishers (AAP) are calling on all members of the book community to affirm their commitment to the Freedom to Read Statement on its 70th anniversary. They are joined by the Authors Guild and American Booksellers Association as well as numerous other signatories.
First published on June 25, 1953, the Freedom to Read Statement begins with this timeless observation: The freedom to read is essential to our democracy. It is continuously under attack” (American Library Association press release, June 25, 2023).
-Read the Freedom to Read Statement (1953)
-Original news coverage: “Librarian Opposes Controls on Ideas: Advises…to Stand Firm Against ‘MacCarthyism’ – Manifesto Circulated” (The New York Times, June 23, 1953; Gustavus login required)
-Related post: Challenged Books @ the Library, April 24, 2023
-Looking for more information? Ask a Librarian