Head to the library for Let Freedom Read, a statewide read-in to celebrate the freedom to read during Banned Books Week, October 1 -7, which draws national attention to the harms of censorship. According to the American Library Association, libraries across the nation and here in Massachusetts have experienced a surge in the number of book challenges and attempts to restrict access. Titles challenged have increased by 20% in 2023 from the same reporting period in 2022, which had the highest reported censorship attempts ever recorded by the ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom. Everyone is welcome to find a good read from their library and join the celebration. Check https://libraries.state.ma.us/pages/let_freedom_read- if you want to join a formal read-in event.  

Digital participation is also welcome! Download an eBook or audiobook through LEA (Library eBooks and Audiobooks powered by Libby/Overdrive) and use #LetFreedomRead to post pictures to social media. You can also sign on to the statement in support of intellectual freedom.

September is Hunger Action Month

Help spread awareness by wearing orange! Orange is the color used to raise hunger awareness. Stop by the library to make a non-perishable food donation. Check out an orange cookbook. Read a book on food insecurity. Save your harvest by checking out a food dehydrator and canning kit from the library of things. Make a citrus garland on September 26 to hang in your window or on your door. Find out more things you can do at foodpantry.org/hunger-action-month/ 

Calling All Local Artists  

For the Friends of the Library’s 1st Falling For Art Exhibit and Sale

October 20-22, 2023 

Artists and photographers are invited to submit up to 5 digital jpeg images by September 30 to   
[email protected]. Include your name, title of the piece and price. 50% of proceeds benefit The Friends of the Manchester Library.