Book sanctuaries are institutions committed to upholding the First Amendment Rights of all citizens, wherein book bans and challenges must follow through a specific procedure to be considered. They are places where books and the right to read them remains at the forefront of what an institution does. Chicago Public Libraries (CPL) declared themselves book sanctuaries in late September. Along …
Thank you to Samantha M. Clark, author of middle grade novels, activist and the creative source of this inspiring message. Visit her website to find merchandise, to nominate a librarian to receive free books and spread the love.
In a time of intense political polarization, library staff in every state are facing an unprecedented number of attempts to ban books. Many great resources exist to help library staff including the Unite Against Book Bans toolkit. The Tocker Foundation is pleased to offer one more with this video presentation from the authoritative voice of Mark Smith, retired director of …
Through a collaboration with the Westport (CT) Library and Tocker Foundation, rural libraries can join a thrilling, nationwide event to celebrate the visionary works of acclaimed author, Neil Gaiman. Stream a captivating live presentation featuring exclusive insights and in-depth discussions about his mesmerizing tales. From the haunting realms of “American Gods” to the whimsical adventures of “Coraline,” this watch party …
Library Journal’s annual award showcases the exemplary work of libraries serving populations under 25,000. This year’s prize went to Page (AZ) Public Library, an outstanding example of an exemplary library. One of two honorable mentions went to Texas’ smallest accredited library in Marathon. Kudos to the hard-working folks who make the Marathon Public Library a community anchor. Stay tuned for …
The Freedom to Read Foundation and the American Association of School Librarians have joined the Association of University Presses, Barnes & Noble Booksellers and Freedom to Learn Advocates in filing an amicus curiae brief that supports the request by the American Booksellers Association, the Association of American Publishers, the Authors Guild, the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund and two Texas …
Harrie P. Woodson Memorial Library in Caldwell, Texas is serious about supporting individuals in advancing their education. This WebJunction article features their programs as a shining example of just one way that libraries strengthen their communities. This is the first in a five part series.
Texas Tribune announces two Texas bookstores and three national bookseller associations file suit over House Bill 900, which requires private booksellers to rate books on appropriateness, and bans “sexually explicit” material from libraries.
Deborah Caldwell-Stone, ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom’s Director says “We’re seeing an unprecedented volume of challenges . . . In my twenty years with ALA, I can’t recall a time when we had multiple challenges coming in on a daily basis.” For those librarians across the country who are faced with these challenges and threats, financial support can be found …
In the current climate of well-funded campaigns to control what children read, Melanie Huggins, president of the Public Library Association (a division of the American Library Association), is speaking out in Public Libraries Journal Jan/Feb 2022. She shares that in the past, the diversity of a collection served as a library’s primary (and mostly quiet) act of resistance against hate, …
To guide the strategic vision of Texas’ new Broadband Development Office, Comptroller Glenn Hegar is touring 12 communities to get Texans’ insights about internet access and collect input to develop the state’s first broadband plan. These events are free, and Texans are encouraged to attend and share their thoughts about broadband services in their communities. This is a great opportunity …
American Rescue Plan: Humanities Grants for Libraries is a $2 million grant program to anchor libraries as strong humanities institutions as they rebuild from the pandemic and restore activities. American Library Association (ALA) will award up to 200 ARP grants of $10,000 each to libraries with an emphasis on reaching historically under-served and/or rural communities. ALA provides all you need …
Is your library ready to host in-person programming again? The Writers’ League of Texas is seeking rural libraries interested in hosting their free, 3 hour writing workshop, Texas Writes. Each workshop includes two presentations on the craft of writing by published authors, plus a moderated conversation and Q&A. Workshops are free and open to all. Twelve to fifteen rural libraries …
Texas State Library and Archives Commission takes the lead on helping Texans find free Wi-Fi. At the urging of Texas Legal Services Center/TexasLawHelp.com, and Texas Rio Grande Legal Aid, TSLAC has launched a map of public Wi-Fi spots across the state. But the job is not yet complete. They need your help by adding more locations not currently included. If …
