The American Library Association (ALA) is pleased to announce the launch of its state Intellectual Freedom Helpline program. Over the next two years, ten pilot program sites will operate a confidential reporting system that will help connect those experiencing censorship attempts with professional support, in-state peers, and referral to ALA OIF as appropriate. The initiative will collect data for inclusion in ALA’s database of confidential reports documenting censorship attempts nationwide; develop resources and establish best practices to operate an IFH; and develop the expertise and confidence of both those providing and receiving support. 

ALA invites state or school library associations or agencies wishing to either establish an Intellectual Freedom Helpline in their state or expand upon the organization’s existing efforts to support librarians and educators addressing censorship in their institutions to apply.  

Applications will be accepted between April 3, 2024, and July 14, 2024. Visit the grant guidelines for more information and to access the grant application. 

Ten grants, each in the amount of $10,000, will be awarded by August 31, 2024. The Intellectual Freedom Helpline grants are made possible through the generous support of the Acton Family Giving and critical program support is provided by the Mellon Foundation.  

Through the grant and a culminating program findings report, ALA is thrilled to announce this opportunity that will build a solid foundation and network to further support libraries that are fiercely working to preserve and protect First Amendment rights. 

The Intellectual Freedom Helpline program is administered by ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom. For more information about ALA and its intellectual freedom efforts, visit http://www.ala.org/oif. 

About the American Library Association 
The American Library Association (ALA) is the foremost national organization providing resources to inspire library and information professionals to transform their communities through essential programs and services. For more than 140 years, the ALA has been the trusted voice for academic, public, school, government, and special libraries, advocating for the profession and the library’s role in enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all. For more information, visit ala.org. 

About Acton Family Giving 
Acton Family Giving supports distinct initiatives and collective efforts. Its Empathy Building Initiative, launched in 2014, partners with organizations building connections across difference and reaffirming our common humanity. This work is rooted in the belief that an empathetic society fosters stronger, healthier, and more just communities. Acton Family Giving is part of the Wildcard Giving philanthropic family. 

About the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation 
The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation is the nation’s largest supporter of the arts and humanities. Since 1969, the Foundation has been guided by its core belief that the humanities and arts are essential to human understanding. The Foundation believes that the arts and humanities are where we express our complex humanity, and that everyone deserves the beauty, transcendence, and freedom that can be found there. Through our grants, we seek to build just communities enriched by meaning and empowered by critical thinking, where ideas and imagination can thrive.