Banned Books Week, an annual, national observance established in 1982 in response to frequent attempts to have books banned, highlights the value of free and open access to information and runs through September 28. The Arlington Public Library is celebrating its own version: Freedom to Read Week.
Arlington’s effort aims to highlight “the important work of protecting your right to read whatever you want, however and whenever.” It also encourages readers to read challenged books and “promotes free and open access to ideas and information.”
In that spirit, the library held an inaugural Freedom to Read bookmark contest. Participants across several age groups created original designs for bookmarks that represents the theme.
There were categories for pre-K, elementary school, middle school, high school, and adults.
After reviewing hundreds of applicants, the library selected 30 winning entries. Bookmarks featuring those designs will be distributed at library locations across the county. The full list of winners’ names is available on the library website.
This marks one year since Arlington became an official book sanctuary. Last fall, the library worked with the Arlington County Board to make the declaration that the library was “committed to protecting banned and challenged books and the right of the residents of Arlington to read the books they choose without fear of suppression.”
Feature image of bookmark contest winners: Riley (Elementary School), Isabella (Middle School), Grace (High School), and Elaine (Adult) courtesy Arlington Public Library
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