Books Unbanned: Defending the Freedom to Read
The Right to Read is Under Threat. Will You Take a Stand?
Censorship is silencing voices, erasing stories, and limiting young minds. Across the country, books that explore race, gender identity, and diverse experiences are being banned at an alarming rate. But together, we can fight back.
Books Unbanned ensures that teens and young adults (ages 13-24) who reside anywhere in the country—outside of Los Angeles County—have free, unrestricted access to thousands of books. Every young person deserves the right to read, learn, and grow.
We’re Fundraising Now to Raise $100,000 to Support This Initiative!
Your support makes a difference. With your donation, we can expand access to books, protect intellectual freedom, and empower young readers to explore stories that challenge, inspire, and reflect their lives.
Donate today to help us reach our goal and defend the freedom to read.
What is Books Unbanned?
Inspired by the groundbreaking work of the Brooklyn Public Library and others, Books Unbanned empowers teens and young adults(ages 13-24) residing anywhere in the country—outside of Los Angeles County—by providing free, unrestricted digital access to thousands of books.
Through this initiative, young people can explore stories that resonate with their experiences, expand their understanding of the world, and engage with ideas that others have tried to suppress.
Ready to Read Freely?
If you’re between the ages of 13 and 24, and live outside of Los Angeles County, you can sign up for a free digital library card and start exploring thousands of banned and challenged books today. The anticipated start dates to obtain a Books Unbanned library card is summer 2025
Why It Matters
When books are banned, voices are silenced. Censorship disproportionately targets stories by and about marginalized communities — erasing essential narratives and limiting the freedom of thought and expression.
- Books spark empathy. They connect us to others and foster understanding.
- Books empower young people. They help teens navigate complex issues and find their own voice.
- Books build strong communities. Access to diverse ideas strengthens our democracy.
By supporting Books Unbanned, you help ensure that all young people have the opportunity to read freely — no matter where they live or what others say.
How You Can Help
Do you believe in the right to read? Your donation helps the Long Beach Public Library Foundation provide young people nationwide—outside of Los Angeles County—free and open access to the Long Beach Public Library’s extensive digital collections.
We are fundraising now to raise $100,000 to make this initiative possible. Your gift supports Books Unbanned by funding:
- Free digital library cards
- Expanded access to banned books
- The protection of intellectual freedom for young readers
Stand with us. Donate today.
Spread the Word
Censorship thrives in silence. Help us raise awareness about the fight for the freedom to read by sharing this page with your friends, family, and community.
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Stay Informed
Sign up for updates on the Books Unbanned initiative, upcoming events, and more ways to advocate for the right to read.
Together, We Can Keep Books on Shelves and in Young Hands.
The fight against censorship is a fight for equity, justice, and the future of free expression. Stand with us — and with every young reader — by supporting Books Unbanned today.