Hello, ebook aficianados,
One June 11 at 1 PM (Eastern), the Digital Shelf will convene again.
The Digital Shelf Publishing & Library Forum: Data vs. Censorship: How Critical Data to Protect Intellectual Freedom is Being Preserved
Webinar Description
As book challenges continue to rise across the country, data has become a critical tool for libraries fighting to protect intellectual freedom. This webinar will provide an overview of several vital projects designed to ensure that information regarding book challenges and bans is accurately preserved and safely accessible.
Featured projects and initiatives include:
- The Banned Book Index Project (BBIP): A collaborative initiative using Wikidata to create an open, definitive dataset of every book ban in the United States.
- The American Library Association (ALA): An update on the ALA's latest tracking efforts and defense resources.
- Independent Research: The ongoing documentation work of Dr. Tasslyn Magnusson on behalf of PEN America and EveryLibrary.
- The Banned Index: A look at a brand-new, AI-driven index tracking censorship trends (bannedindex.org).
Representatives from each project will share their insights on current censorship challenges, highlight data resources available to libraries and the public, and explain how individuals can get involved. This will be followed by a panel discussion on the reality of book banning and the vital role data plays in the fight to preserve access.
Key Takeaways for Attendees:
- Learn how to easily navigate these digital resources and tracking tools.
- Discover how to submit new data and report local challenges.
- Gain actionable insights to defend intellectual freedom within your own community.
We will also provide a special spotlight on The Banned Book Club and Books Unbanned, highlighting how these innovative programs are actively bypassing local restrictions to keep digital books in the hands of readers.
Join us to explore how open-source data and digital initiatives are building a more resilient infrastructure for the future of free access.
Presenters include: Tasslyn Magnusson (PEN America), Christie Thomas (University of Chicago), Micah May (Lyrasis/Palace Project), Eric Stroshane, Office for Intellectual Freedom, American Library Association, Emma Karin Eriksson, Brooklyn Public Library
Partners include: Michael Blackwell (ReadersFirst) and Jeremy Johannesen (Chief Officers of State Library Agencies (COSLA))
Register Here
Hope you'll join us!
Michael
Michael Blackwell
Director, St Mary's County Library
23630 Hayden Farm Lane
Leonardtown, MD 20650
301-475-2151 x5013
Cell phone: 301-904-3048
mblackwell@stmalib.org
