[ST. PAUL, MN] – In celebration of Reading Month, Governor Tim Walz today unveiled the first ever Little Free Library in the State Capitol. With more than 1,600 book titles banned or restricted by other states last year, the Little Free Library celebrates books and helps to ensure they remain accessible in Minnesota. The Governor unveiled the library alongside librarians and advocates for book accessibility. Photos from the event can be found here .

“In Minnesota, we are focused on investing in education, our future, and children and families across the state. We’re not in the business of taking books away from kids and schools – and we certainly don’t believe in banning books that tell our history,” said Governor Walz. “This Little Free Library is one way we’re doing our part to ensure books remain accessible to teach, tell our story, and inspire the next generation of readers in Minnesota.”

"It is an honor to place a Little Free Library book-exchange box at the Minnesota Governor's office as a reminder that access to books is a right. We believe all people are empowered when the opportunity to discover a personally relevant book to read is not limited by time, space, or privilege. Book access strengthens literacy skills which in turn fosters academic, economic, and life-long success for all,” said Little Free Library Executive Director Greig Metzger. "Banning books is completely contrary to the Little Free Library mission. Sharing books and providing book access is fundamental to our organization’s DNA. Too often the books that are pulled from shelves represent the work and lives of BIPOC, LGBTQ, and other marginalized communities. We support greater access to these under-represented voices which strengthens our communities through connection, understanding, and empathy."

This comes after the Governor celebrated reading month by reading to an elementary school classroom earlier this week.

Little Free Library (LFL) is a nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minnesota. Their mission is to be a catalyst for building community, inspiring readers, and expanding book access for all through a global network of volunteer-led Little Free Libraries.