Let Freedom Read: Hopkinton Public Library to Host Lawn Read-In to Mark Banned Books Week

HOPKINTON — Library Director Nanci Hill and the Hopkinton Public Library invite members of the community to join as the library takes part in a statewide read-in as part of Banned Books Week. 

WHEN:

Thursday, Oct. 5, from 5-7 p.m.

WHERE:

Town Common, 6 Hayden Rowe St.

WHAT:

Hopkinton Public Library invites members of the community to grab a book and a lawn chair, and head to the Town Common for Let Freedom Read, a statewide read-in to celebrate the freedom to read. All are encouraged to join in a celebration of unrestricted reading and take a stand against the banning of books. Local and state representatives are expected to attend.

Banned Books Week is Oct. 1-7. It was created in 1982 in response to a sudden surge in the number of challenges to books in libraries, bookstores and schools. The event highlights the value of free and open access to information. 

Participants may bring a chair or blanket and a book of their own, or choose a book from the library’s collection. Attendees are encouraged to exercise their right to read whatever they choose whether it be a large print, audiobook, comic, children’s, teen, romance, science fiction, nonfiction or a magazine. Participants may also request or renew a library card. 

Digital participation is also welcomed if residents would like to download an eBook or audiobook through the Libby free library mobile app. Those participating can use #LetFreedomReadMA when posting pictures to social media. 

The event is free. No registration is required.

In the event of inclement weather, the read-in will be held inside.

Let Freedom Read is supported by local libraries, the Joint Task Force for Intellectual Freedom with members from the Massachusetts Library Association, Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners, the Massachusetts Library System, and the Massachusetts School Library Association

For more information about Banned Books Week, visit bannedbooksweek.org. 

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