Library series celebrates freedom to read

In collaboration with BookPeople, Austin Public Library is responding to the rash of book-banning across Texas with a summerlong series of events called Banned Camp. A press release explains that the calendar of author events, storytimes and book clubs is a way for community members to “engage with books that have been banned or challenged, and be part of the conversation around the freedom to read.” As Austin Public Library Director Roosevelt Weeks said, “Libraries exist to give people access to all kinds of information, stories, and ideas, and unfortunately, that is increasingly under threat.” Banned Camp, he said, will highlight the library’s efforts “against censorship and book banning.” Launching the series is a conversation with George M. Johnson, author of All Boys Aren’t Blue, on June 16 at 6 p.m. at the Carver Branch Library. Find the full schedule of Banned Camp events here.