Today, April 24, is the American Library Association’s “Right to Read Day,” a designation in response to the proliferation of book challenges which has swept across the country, almost doubling from 2021 to 2022. The Easton Public Library endorses ALA’s Freedom to Read Statement, which can be viewed here.
The mission of a public library is to provide a variety of information, on a variety of topics, in a variety of formats. Patrons should have the right to access whatever they are looking for, regardless of others’ views on what is appropriate. Each individual has the right to decide what is appropriate for themselves and their families, but it doesn’t mean that they should decide what is appropriate for others.
Most of the items being challenged contain LGBTQ or racial content. These are the very books that should be available, because they promote understanding, tolerance, and respect. For kids and teens who are struggling with their identity, it is extremely important to see themselves represented in what they read. It is also very important for others to read and learn about people who are different than they are. This is known as the “Mirrors and Windows” concept, and it is a powerful one.
The Easton Public Library encourage visitors on “Right to Read Day” or during National Library Week from April 23 to 29 to support this timely initiative.
