Take Action for Libraries Day

2023 National Library Week - Take Action for Libraries Day - Thursday, April 27

Library advocates across the country stand united on Take Action for Libraries Day, an annual day of action during National Library Week! From Congress to local library boards, our elected officials need to hear from library supporters at all levels of government. This year, advocates are joining together to tell Congress to protect the freedom to read and stand against censorship. Threats to the right to read have increased dramatically in recent years, and Congress must stand against any attempts to restrict intellectual freedom. Use our tools below to take action and remind Congress why the freedom to read must be protected.

Take Action

Tell Congress to stand with school libraries!

Library champions in Congress just reintroduced critical legislation to support school libraries and students' freedom to read! The Right to Read Act, introduced by Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) and Rep Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ-7) would create protections for school librarians and students' right to read, as well as require every student to have access to a school library, staffed by a certified school librarian. This legislation has the potential to impact millions of students across the country, providing a much-needed infusion of funding for school libraries, and a huge step forward in the fight against censorship. ALA is urging members of Congress to stand with school librarians, students, and other educators nationwide by cosponsoring this legislation - take action and urge your members of Congress to sign on!

Bring Congress to your library

Invite your members of Congress to a virtual or in-person tour of your library! Showcasing the successes - and needs - of your library to your elected officials is a great way to establish relationships with elected leaders. Check out the in-person tour checklist, and learn more about how to successfully welcome Congress into your library with our dedicated tour resource page which includes recorded sample tours.