FDL is proud to partner with Bradley University, Chillicothe Public Library, Dunlap Public Library District, Methodist College, Morton Public Library, Neighborhood House, Pekin Public Library, and Peoria Public Library to celebrate every individual’s Freedom to Read!
With the marked increase in book challenges nationwide, Peoria Public Library invited Central Illinois libraries to come together to encourage everyone to exercise their intellectual “Freedom to Read” what they choose.
April 11 through October 7 (Banned Books Week), local libraries will host events to empower you to stand against censorship, including programs with nationally known authors whose books have been banned, screenings of films based on banned books, discussions with librarians who are pushing back against intolerance, exclusion, and censorship, and more.
Please join us in celebrating each person’s Freedom to Read. Get a library card. Read outside your comfort zone. Unite against book bans.
Learn more at peoriapubliclibrary.org/central-illinois-reads/.
Upcoming Central Illinois Reads Events:
Tuesday, September 12 — Central Illinois Reads Presents: Talking About Trauma
6 p.m. — Methodist College, 7600 N. Academic Dr.
As part of our Central Illinois Reads’ exploration of intellectual freedom, we’ve discovered that many of the books challenged and censored deal with trauma of some sort. Our keynote speaker, Laurie Halse Anderson, author of Speak, found her book near the top of censorship lists because it dealt with teen sexual assault and suicidal ideation.
Almost everyone has experienced some type of trauma. Yet, talking about trauma is often still taboo.
In order to become a more trauma informed and, hopefully, trauma engaged community, we need to normalize the discussion of trauma.
This symposium will feature several speakers who will discuss different types of traumas, such as childhood trauma and systemic trauma, from different perspectives, such as professionals in healthcare and human services and as a parent.
Please join us for this important conversation.
Free and open to all. Refreshments provided.