September 30 at 10:00 a.m.
Reading, MA— Grab a book and head to the library for Let Freedom Read, a statewide read-in to celebrate the freedom to read. “Libraries across the nation and in Massachusetts have experienced a surge in book challenges,” said James Lonergan, Director of the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners. “We may not agree on what to read, but hopefully we can all agree that the freedom to choose what we want to read is a vital part of a democratic society. Libraries across the Commonwealth develop collections that meet the diverse needs of the communities they serve. Everyone is welcome to find a good read from their library and join the celebration,” he added.
In Reading, everyone is welcome to gather on the library lawn to read whatever you want with your neighbors and friends. We’ll have cider, donuts, giveaways, and there will be a children’s storytime at 10:00 am. Bring a book or borrow one, we’ll have folding chairs, and you may bring your own chair or blanket. https://bit.ly/RPLReadIn
Digital participation is also encouraged. Download an eBook or audiobook and use #LetFreedomReadMA to post pictures to social media. For a complete list of participating libraries go to libraries.state.ma.us
According to the American Library Association, there were 45 book challenges in Massachusetts in 2022 affecting 57 titles. That’s more than the past 9 years (2013-2021) combined which totaled 38 challenges. Nationwide, ALA reported 1,270 book challenges in 2022, up significantly from 350 in 2019. The Massachusetts Library Association, Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners, the Massachusetts Library System, and the Massachusetts School Library Association recently released a statement in support of libraries and intellectual freedom. Individuals can show their support by signing on at tinyurl.com/supporting-libraries
Let Freedom Read is supported by your local library and the Joint Task Force for Intellectual Freedom with members from the Massachusetts Library Association, Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners, the Massachusetts Library System, and the Massachusetts School Library Association.
September 30 | 10:00 am – 12:00 pm | Library Lawn
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The Reading Public Library is committed to evolving together to strengthen communication, equity, collaboration, and learning in our community. Our mission is to be a center and resource for learning and civic engagement. We provide a place and platform of, by, and for the people who can benefit as individuals as well as contribute to the well-being of the community. We work to achieve these goals and commitments by focusing on education, equity, accountability, and access.
