All 19 branches of the Baltimore County Public Library will be participating in the inaugural Freedom to Read Day of Action, in support of legislation that would forbid book bans in libraries. October 19, 2024 is set to see community events and rallies across the country, led by the American Library Association and its Unite Against Book Bans initiative, along with several other major and minor libraries.
While Maryland’s own Freedom to Read law was signed in April 2024 by Gov. Wes Moore, this kind of legislation is relatively new and currently only exists in a few states. Illinois was the first state to outlaw book bans in 2023, and has been followed by California and Minnesota, with Freedom to Read Acts currently pending in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
Other states have introduced lighter laws to attempt to curb book bans, such as a Florida-based proposal that would fine residents who challenge more than six books a year. But banned books reached an all-time high in 2023, and the ALA notes that while the number of attempts to ban books has declined in 2024, it is still far higher than it was in the years before 2020.
For its part, the Baltimore County Library System is hosting several events at its various locations to support Freedom to Read-related legislation. The Essex and Perry Hall branches will be hosting a read-in demonstration from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., where participants can come in and read while acting in support of Freedom to Read. The Catonsville branch will have a themed story time for younger readers from 10 to 10:30 a.m., using picture books that have been frequently challenged and banned.
All locations will have a banner available for library guests to sign and show their support for Freedom to Read, which will then be shared with local lawmakers.
“As champions of intellectual freedom, Baltimore County Public Library remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for the freedom to read—a right that is fundamental to a democratic society,” said Baltimore County Library System CEO Sonia Alcántara-Antoine. “The Freedom to Read Day of Action on October 19 is a powerful reminder that each of us has a role to play in protecting this essential freedom, where individuals can explore diverse ideas without fear of censorship. I encourage everyone to join us on Saturday and throughout the year to advocate for policies that protect the right to read and support their local libraries.”
