Hi All,
@Shannon Oltmann is the editor for a new book that is coming out this summer; The Fight against Book Bans: Perspectives from the Field.
"Chapter authors provide first-hand accounts of facing book challenges and describe how they have prepared for challenges, overcome opposition to certain books, and shown the value of specific library materials. Library science faculty with a range of specialties provide relevant background information to bolster these on-the-ground views. Together, the chapters both articulate the importance of intellectual freedom and demonstrate how to convey that significance to others in the community with passion and wisdom. This volume provides a timely and thorough overview of the complex issues surrounding the ongoing spate of book challenges faced by public and school libraries."
"This timely book will be an excellent resource for library workers on the front lines in the fight to protect access to information. Using a combination of stories from the field and practical advice for responding to threats to intellectual freedom, Oltmann has assembled a valuable resource that captures the concerns of this moment and provides hope for the future."-Dr. @Martin Garnar , Director, Amherst College Library; Editor, Intellectual Freedom Manual, Tenth Edition
"The majority of Americans oppose censorship. But those calling for bans are loud, angry, and organized. These voices from the frontlines of America's libraries not only offer sage advice (with the big one being the necessity of having and adhering to policies), they also share their astonishment, anxiety, and deep commitment to service and professionalism. A vital record of our times, this book is recommended for all public, school, and academic libraries." -James LaRue, Executive Director, Garfield County (CO) Public Library District
On May 18th, there's a free webinar from the publisher. Shannon and three contributors to the new book (including myself) are going to share their views regarding the recent flood of book challenges across the United States, reflect on first-hand accounts of facing book challenges, dig into the importance of intellectual freedom in the library, and offer guidance on responding to challenges in your communities. Find more information and register on the publisher's website.
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Kristin Pekoll, CAE
Conference and Continuing Education Manager
Illinois Library Association
kristinjpekoll@gmail.comShe/Her/Hers
#UniteAgainstBookBans
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