Intellectual freedom is the cornerstone of our democracy and libraries play a crucial role. Our job is to collect material and provide programming that not only reflects our communities but represents diverse viewpoints.
We are proud to be a signatory to the Urban Libraries Council Declaration of Democracy.
As a result of the rising number of book challenges and bans nationwide, the Ferguson Library’s Board of Trustees voted to designate the Ferguson Library a book sanctuary.
A book sanctuary provides opportunities to expand access to banned and challenged books as well as provides support and protection for the freedom to read. The book sanctuary designation affirms the Ferguson Library’s commitment to collecting and protecting endangered books, making them accessible to the public, hosting book talks, events, and conversations about diverse characters and stories, and educating others on the history of book banning and burning.
in January, 2023. the city of Stamford designated Stamford a book sanctuary city. Stamford was the first municipality in Connecticut to do this, following the lead of the Chicago Public Library and the city of Chicago, which took this step in September 2022.
What can you do?
Read a challenged book! We have lists of them and can help you choose. Talk to your local and national politicians. Let them know the importance of intellectual freedom and that you care about this fundamental issue.
Ferguson Library CEO Alice Knapp talks about becoming a book sanctuary.
Additional Resources
ALA Office of Intellectual Freedom
Book Sanctuary
CT Library Assc statement against censorship
Freedom to Read Foundation
Friends of Ferguson Freedom to Read Resources
Pen America 100
Unite Against Book Bans