"There's More to the Story," National Library Week Kicks Off
Since its inception in 1958, National Library Week has been a flagship event sponsored by the American Library Association (ALA) and celebrated every April in libraries nationwide. From school and public libraries to academic and special collections, all types of libraries participate in this important occasion.
The theme for National Library Week, April 23-29, 2023, is "There's More to the Story." The theme stands as a reminder that libraries have a lot more to offer than just books, including community-building events such as book clubs, storytimes, movie nights, crafting classes, and lectures that foster human connection and engagement. The ALA also notes that libraries play a pivotal role in advancing the community by providing internet and technology access to low-income individuals and families, as well as providing support for businesses, job seekers, and entrepreneurs.
Last year, 'Unite Against Book Bans' launched a national initiative to empower readers everywhere to stand together in the fight against censorship. This year they continue rallying readers, advocates, and library lovers nationwide to defend, protect, and celebrate the fundamental right to read freely as part of Right to Read Day.
“The fight against censorship is too big for one person or library or organization to take on alone,” ALA President Lessa Kanani’opua Pelayo-Lozada said in a statement. “Readers who think, ‘this will never happen in our community,’ need to think again. More than half the states have legislation proposed or passed that would take library books off the shelves, punish library workers who dare to make books accessible and silence the voices of LGBTQ, BIPOC and other authors. Speaking up and raising our voices now can stop censorship where it’s happening and prevent censorship where it’s just getting started.”
As part of its continued campaign against book bans, Unite Against Book Bans is encouraging book lovers everywhere to check out and read a challenged book, attend school board and library advisory board meetings, and speak out against book bans by submitting a letter to the editor or writing to elected officials.
If you're looking for something to read, Pen America has some suggestions. And while you’re at it, don’t hesitate to express your appreciation for libraries and librarians too – they work hard to make sure everyone has access to books and knowledge.
Click here for more information about National Library Week.
