EveryLibrary, EveryLibrary Institute, and IBPA Join Forces to Combat Book Bans and Send Books to Communities Facing Censorship

EveryLibrary and the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) are announcing a new collaboration, "We Are Stronger Than Censorship", aimed at increasing access to diverse and inclusive books for readers, which the growing wave of censorship across the United States has impacted.

About the "We Are Stronger Than Censorship" Campaign

The "We Are Stronger Than Censorship" campaign is designed to counteract the chilling effects of book bans by empowering readers to access a wide range of voices and stories, supporting independent publishers who champion under-represented perspectives, and ensuring that diverse and marginalized voices are not silenced.

Independent publishers, many of whom focus on amplifying voices from marginalized communities, have been significantly affected by the recent surge in book bans and challenges. The drop in sales to schools and libraries has disproportionately impacted these publishers. Through "We Are Stronger Than Censorship," we aim to support these publishers, uplift affected authors, and most importantly, restore access to diverse, quality books for readers nationwide.

Every $16 we raise will help us purchase TWO more banned books to share!

"We Are Stronger Than Censorship" will purchase and donate 2,000 (or more) books to readers through various regional partners, including the Florida Freedom to Read Project, Texas Freedom to Read Project, and Wisconsin Freedom to Read Project. The program will acquire at least 100 copies each of 20 titles from different independent publishers, ensuring a broad representation of voices and perspectives.

Campaign Timeline

The public launch is scheduled for September 9, 2024. The campaign is currently reaching out to industry stakeholders to participate in this crucial effort. Independent publishers who have experienced a decline in sales due to book bans are encouraged to apply to have one of their titles included in the program from September 9-30, 2024.

Support this Campaign!

For book publishers, you can support the aims and goals of the campaign directly. For every ad placed in IBPA’s quarterly bookstore catalog from Fall 2024 to Summer 2025, IBPA will donate $40 per catalog page to the campaign at no extra cost to publishers. Please contact IBPA for more information. 

For every reader and free speech advocate, you can make a difference in three ways:

• Donate: Consider making a tax-deductible* donation to "We Are Stronger Than Censorship." Every $16 donation helps purchase 2 books, directly contributing to restoring access to banned titles. [Donate here]
• Merchandise: Purchase "Strong Like a Reader" merchandise. Each item sold supports the donation of 2 books, countering the impact of book bans. [Browse items here]
• Stay Informed: Sign up for weekly updates and banned book shopping lists to stay engaged with the campaign. [Sign up here]

Your involvement, whether through donations, sharing our message, or purchasing and reading banned books, will help us create a world where every story can be told and heard and everyone has the freedom to read. Learn more about "We Are Stronger Than Censorship" and join our efforts here.

About Our Partners

The Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), founded in 1983, supports independent publishers through advocacy, education, and tools for success. With over 3,500 members, IBPA is the largest publishing association in the U.S., committed to a world where every independent publisher can thrive.

EveryLibrary, a registered 501(c)(4) organization, is dedicated to supporting libraries and the freedom to read through research, training, and advocacy. The fiscal agent for "We Are Stronger Than Censorship" is the EveryLibrary Institute NFP, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

Media inquiries and other questions about the program can be addressed to Lee Wind at [email protected].