Intellectual Freedom

WASHINGTON, D.C.— Public policy issues surrounding 3D printers are now coming to the fore as the technology becomes more widely available in America’s libraries and homes. To ensure people are able to use 3D printers responsibly and effectively, librarians must now work towards developing policies in copyright, trademark, privacy, product liability and more. Established, reasonable practices for 3D printing will enable this technology to best serve our communities and inform the laws, regulations and judicial decisions to come.

Which banned book are you?

CHICAGO — Take the new online “Which Banned Book Are You” quiz and find out which banned or challenged book best fits your personality. Developed by librarians at Columbus State Community College (CSCC) in Ohio, the quiz was created to celebrate Banned Books Week and the freedom to read and the right to choose reading materials without restriction. 

CHICAGO—Travel to London, South Carolina, Texas and California to learn about efforts to un-ban books by attending the free webinar, "Regional Issues for Banned Books in 2014."

In 2013, there were hundreds of reported requests for books to be removed from America’s libraries, potentially putting those volumes out of reach of students, readers and learners of all types.  While every corner of the map faces unique issues related to library censorship, these issues also catalyze passionate freedom-to-read advocates dedicated to getting the books back on library shelves.

CHICAGO — The Executive Committee of Banned Books Week invites organizations and individuals, such as libraries, authors, publishers, bookstores and schools, to share how they are celebrating 2014’s Banned Books Week.  This year’s Banned Books Week, which is taking place from Sept. 21-27, will shine a light on comics and graphic novels. The committee has created a simple form on bannedbooksweek.org to which organizations can post their activities.