Freedom to Read Day of Action

Stay tuned for information about special guests and activities at the Freedom to Read Day of Action!

Please note you do not need a ticket to show up to the Freedom to Read Day of Action. We encourage you to register to receive updates.

The freedom to read is an American value that must be protected. Book bans and challenges in the U.S. reached an all-time high in 2023 and continue to happen at an alarming rate. It's more important than ever to show support for local libraries and the freedom to read.

The New York Public Library is committed to making information and knowledge freely available to all. We believe everyone should be able to exercise their freedom to choose what they read. We are united with libraries and communities nationwide in opposing efforts to censor or ban books. We stand in solidarity with our fellow library workers and community members who are being threatened.

On Saturday, October 19, 2024, libraries, bookstores, readers, and other partners nationwide are hosting rallies and community events to unite against book bans and demonstrate our shared commitment to this fundamental freedom.

• Discover everything The New York Public Library is doing to protect the freedom to read, including free events and programs, a major online exhibition about the history of censorship, an all-new curriculum guide for educators, and more.
• Join NYPL's Teen Banned Book Club! Our current book club pick is Flamer by Mike Curato—available to NYPL cardholders without holds or wait times through November 30. Plus, check out our discussion guide and more.
• Show support for the #FreedomToRead on social media using the toolkit on Unite Against Book Bans' Freedom to Read Day of Action page.
• Find more ways to take action from Unite Against Book Bans, which offers information on how to report censorship and a full toolkit.

Host or Publisher The New York Public Library