You are the Best Ally

Most activity related to book bans and censorship occurs at the local level.  Learn about the issues in your community; make your concerns known to decision makers.  Attend school board and library board meetings. It’s important to let community leaders know  there is strong support for our First Amendment rights.

Here’s a “Guide to Attending Library & School Board Meetings” from United Against Book Bans.

Report Censorship

Libraries across the country are experiencing an unprecedented surge in attempts to censor books and materials from libraries and schools. It’s important to stay alert should book ban efforts come to your community.

The Missouri Library Association and the Missouri Association of School Librarians in partnership with the American Library Association, provide a Missouri Intellectual Freedom Helpline.

Use this form to report censorship issues and to request support.

Contact Media

Writing a “letter to the editor” of your local newspaper is another way to respond to censorship actions in your community. When your newspaper publishes a story or editorial about censorship issues, send a concise letter to show your support for the First Amendment.

Most newspapers provide information online on how to “submit a letter to the editor.” The “letters” section of print and online publications provide an opportunity for community members to express their thoughts and opinions.

The Missouri State Legislature

The Missouri Legislature sets state policy regarding First Amendment rights guaranteed by the United States Constitution.  The legislature, which is in session January through May, approves Missouri’s annual budget and considers legislation and resolutions filed by members of the House of Representative and the Senate.  Bills move through committees, hearings, floor debate and votes in both chambers.  Upon approval by both chambers, legislation is sent to the governor for signature into law or veto.

During the legislative session, you can give input on proposed legislation or resolutions.  You can do this by providing in person or written testimony, contacting your Representative Senator, and participating in advocacy days sponsored by organizations.

Here’s a link to find your state and federal elected officials

Timely Updates and Action Alerts

The Right to Read coalition provides updates on Missouri and federal actions related to censorship, book bans and other First Amendment issues. This includes “Action Alerts” that provide specific ways you can make your voice heard by elected officials.

We send updates and Action Alerts to coalition members as needed; out of respect for your time and attention, we promise not to flood your inbox. Join the coalition to ensure that you have the most up-to-date information

Missouri State Library

The Missouri State Library promotes the development and improvement of library services throughout the state, provides direct library and information services in support of Missouri state government, and strives to ensure all Missourians have equal access to library services.

The library, under the jurisdiction of the Secretary of State, sets Missouri Public Library Standards:

“A library’s main purpose is to provide access to materials with a diverse spectrum of content to the community that it serves. As communities change, so must library collections. A successful collection embodies the principle of free access to ideas on all sides of an issue, including potentially controversial topics.”

The “Collection Management and Access” section of Library Standards states:

“Collection management policies are based on the ALA intellectual freedom principles.    Policies and procedure are established for: materials selection and acquisition; material removal utilizing the CREW method or another recognized method to maintain the relevancy of the collection to community needs; and materials reconsideration requests.”