Book challenges and threats to intellectual freedom are on the rise nationwide, and community support of public libraries is more important than ever. The Sandra Bornstein Holocaust Education Center and the Cranston Public Library will present a panel discussion looking at the historical context of intellectual freedom and how we can respond and advocate for these institutions and freedoms in the present. Bringing together historians, public librarians, and free speech advocates, this event will frame the importance of protecting and advocating for institutions that enable a free and pluralistic society.

This panel discussion and audience Q&A will be moderated by Tayla Cardillo, chair of the RI Library Association Intellectual Freedom Committee, and feature opening remarks from library trustee Michael Goldberg. Panelists include: Brigitte Hopkins and Bill Lancellotta from the Westerly Library; Steven Brown, Executive Director of the Rhode Island ACLU; and Michael Bryant, Professor of History and Legal Studies at Bryant University.

Free and open to the public. Registration is not required, but you will receive email reminders about the event by registering. Please click the button below or contact the library for assistance.

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This event is part of Cranston Public Library's Banned Books Week programming. You may also be interested in the author panel event "We the Readers: A Live Banned Books Event" taking place on Tuesday, October 3 at 6:00 PM at the William Hall Library.