With conversations and occasional action to ban certain books at schools and libraries, the Emporia Public Library Board has added its endorsement to what’s called the Freedom to Read statement.
The document was adopted by the American Library Association and Association of American Publishers in 1953 and was reaffirmed and renewed 20 years ago, with additional endorsements from the Authors Guild and American Booksellers Association when it was renewed. It says the freedom to read “is essential to our democracy” and “is continuously under attack.” It also says calls for book bans, legislation considered unconstitutional and work to “criminalize” the work of librarians, teachers and others “threaten our fundamental liberties.” Emporia Public Library Director Pauline Stacchini agrees.
Click here to read the Freedom to Read statement and offer your endorsement if you so choose.
