Opening Session, 9 am
Wednesday, January 24
Wednesday, January 24
Neutrality Is Not An Option: Book Bans, “Culture Wars,” and Advocating for the Library
Coordinated book banning efforts have been underway for nearly 2 years, and each week brings with it new tactics from the censors to accomplish their work. This presentation will look at how these groups are organizing, the tools they’re using, and what potential next targets may be. The entire ecosystem of books, publishing, reading, and knowledge are under attack, threatening to make books and access to books a luxury. “Neutrality Is Not An Option” will explore the reality of why book bans are going to continue and how books represent the bigger agenda of erasure and eradication of marginalized people. The presentation will include how to respond to these challenges, the ways these issues impact the mental health of library workers, and how to engage citizens in standing up for their rights.
Kelly Jensen, Editor, Book Riot
Coordinated book banning efforts have been underway for nearly 2 years, and each week brings with it new tactics from the censors to accomplish their work. This presentation will look at how these groups are organizing, the tools they’re using, and what potential next targets may be. The entire ecosystem of books, publishing, reading, and knowledge are under attack, threatening to make books and access to books a luxury. “Neutrality Is Not An Option” will explore the reality of why book bans are going to continue and how books represent the bigger agenda of erasure and eradication of marginalized people. The presentation will include how to respond to these challenges, the ways these issues impact the mental health of library workers, and how to engage citizens in standing up for their rights.
Kelly Jensen, Editor, Book Riot