Webinar: Policy as an Advocacy Tool
On Monday, October 6, at 3:00 pm ET, American Booksellers for Free Expression (ABFE) Associate Director Philomena Polefrone will join representatives from the American Library Association, National Coalition Against Censorship, and more to discuss how bookstores can use store policies on curation and conduct to protect free expression.
Banned Books Week Social Media Display Contest
Consider this advance notice: the third annual Banned Books Week Social Media Display Contest will take place this year! Start thinking of the best ways to use your Banned Books Week kits (which should arrive this week) to make an unforgettable display.
The bookstore with the best display will win $300, and two runners-up will receive $100 each! (We suggest the winnings be divided among staff who helped create it or used for a staff party.)
Check BTW next week for more details.
Alabama Public Library Service Advances Anti-Trans Proposal
Alabamians, make your voice heard to stop the Alabama Public Library Service (APLS) from advancing a harmful and discriminatory proposal.
Introduced by a board member who is also running for state Senate, the proposal would label any book featuring a “positive portrayal” of transgender people or “transgender ideology” as inappropriate for minors. The proposal was passed, despite a clear warning by the former APLS President about the harm it would do to the library system. It is now open for public comment, which you can participate in more easily thanks to Read Freely Alabama.
After you’ve submitted a public comment, consider sharing the link in your newsletter or hosting a public comment event in your store. You can also email [email protected] for more information.
ABFE and ABA at Regional Shows
The ABA team had a great time at CALIBA Fall Fest last week!
Next, the team is headed to PNBA. We hope to see you there!
Stop by the ABA table to visit with us, and make sure to attend our education sessions, “Navigating Attacks on Your Store” and “Measure What Matters: Five Key Numbers to Focus on During Turbulent Times.”