Celebrate freedom of expression and show your passion for literacy by participating in the Athens-Clarke County Library’s tiny art show, “Let Freedom Read.” Come to the Information Desk on the second floor to pick up a tiny art kit. Decorate it according to the theme and return your canvas to be displayed during Banned Books Week, October 1-7. Each kit contains a 5″x 5″ canvas, two paintbrushes, an assortment of 6 paint colors, and links about book challenges. Completed canvases will be accepted through Oct. 3. A $50 gift card will be awarded to the canvas that best represents theme and creativity, with a runner-up eligible for a $25 gift card.
In 2022, there were more than 2,500 unique titles targeted for censorship across the country, an increase of 38% from the previous year. Nationwide, most of the targeted books were written by or about members of the LGBTQIA+ community and people of color. Stand up against book censorship and support the Freedom to Read!