As book challenges and bans continue to rise across the country, our annual Banned Books Readout — on Oct. 6 at the Washington Ave. Branch — reminds everyone that access to information, diverse voices, and free expression are fundamental to a healthy democracy.
During the Readout, you’ll hear local performers read powerful passages from books that have been banned or challenged, illustrating the themes of free speech, intellectual freedom, privacy, and the importance of resisting censorship.
The program is presented in partnership with the New York Civil Liberties Union and APL, along with a coalition of community organizations committed to protecting intellectual freedom, including League of Women Voters of Albany County, Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood, and Albany NY Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Other Banned Books programs include:
Bookworm Bookmark | Oct. 7 at 4 pm | Bach | Ages 5-11
North Albany Cinema Society: 1931 Film “Dracula” | Oct. 21 at 5 pm | North Albany | Ages 18+
Book Recommendation Club: Read a Banned Book | Oct. 29 at 5:30 pm | Zoom | Ages 18+
And don’t forget to check out a banned book to read! Here are the most challenged books of 2025 from the American Library Association.
