Judged by the Covers: Meet the Challenge – Organize, Advocate, and Overcome

A panel of public librarians representing Adult, Teen, and Children’s Departments, will explore strategies to counteract book challenges, bans, and board infiltrations in libraries. Participants will gain access to a comprehensive online toolkit, providing digital resources for effectively addressing these challenges and engaging with advocacy groups. Additionally, attendees are invited to join a newly established online forum, designed as a collaborative space for exchanging ideas and supporting efforts against censorship in libraries. This event is essential for professionals committed to preserving the freedom of information and expression within library environments.

This event will be in-person only and will not have a hybrid component 

Panelist:

• Steven Alcalde (he/him/his) – Head of Computer and Technology Services, Rogers Memorial Library
• Casey Golda (she/her/hers) – Head of Teen Services, Rogers Memorial Library
• Erin Kanelos (she/her/hers) – Special Projects and Web Services Coordinator, Suffolk Cooperative Library System
• Kimberly Manise (she/her/hers) – Head of Children's Services and Security, Port Jefferson Free Library