Oakland, CA – The Oakland Public Library (OPL), in collaboration with the American Association of University Women (AAUW) Oakland-Piedmont chapter, is proud to present “Book Bans & Censorship What You Can do About it” an expert panel discussion about the current state of unprecedented book bans and censorship across the United States. The event will take place September 30, 20203, at the Rockridge Branch OPL, 5366 College Ave, Oakland CA, 1:00 p.m. -3:30 p.m.
“In an era when the freedom to read and access diverse voices, primarily people of color and LGBQT+ is increasingly under threat, I am pleased the OPL is hosting this timely panel discussion,” said Jamie Turbak, Oakland Public Library Director. “Attendees will understand more fully the challenges faced by libraries, schools and communities and the impact on literacy, education and intellectual freedom nationwide.”
Panelists include:
Patrick Sweeney - Political Director at EveryLibrary, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting libraries through political advocacy and public engagement. Sweeney will moderate the discussion.
Tony Thurmond - State Superintendent of Education or Representative from the California Department of Education, who will provide insights into the educational implications of book bans.
Betsy Gomez - Representing the Office for Intellectual Freedom at the American Library Association, an organization dedicated to defending the right to read and the freedom to access information.
Sam Davis - Director of the Oakland School Board, District 1, who will discuss the impact of book bans on local educational institutions and communities.
Bamidele Agbasegbe-Demerson - Chief Curator at the African American Museum & Library, sharing perspectives on how book bans intersect with the preservation of cultural and historical narratives.
Sharon McKellar - Supervisor of Teen Services at the Oakland Public Library, offering insights into how book bans affect library services and resources for young readers.
This panel discussion is an opportunity for concerned citizens, educators, librarians, and advocates of intellectual freedom to come together, learn more about the challenges posed by book bans and explore ways to fight for the right to read for all.
The event is free and open to the public, with a Q&A session at the end for audience participation.
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About Oakland Public Library
The Oakland Public Library is a part of the City of Oakland in California and has been in existence since 1878. Locations include 16 neighborhood branches, a Main Library, a Second Start Adult Literacy Program, the Oakland Tool Lending Library, and the African American Museum and Library at Oakland (AAMLO). The Oakland Public Library empowers all people to explore, connect, and grow. oaklandlibrary.org
About American Association of University Women
The American Association of University Women is a non-profit organization that empowers women and girls through advocacy, education, and research. aauw.org
For more information, please contact Brian Guenther, Oakland Public Library Rockridge Branch Manager at bguenther@oaklandlibrary.org or 510-597-5017.
