This weekend was a big weekend for the fledgling Freadom Books! We assembled a small group of volunteers and attended the Friends of the Library sale in Gainesville. Over three separate trips, we unearthed more than 100 books that have been banned in Florida public schools. As we lugged the books home, our excitement grew, knowing that we were about to embark on a meaningful endeavor that would make an impact in our community.

On Saturday night, we gathered our stash of banned books and spent an evening sorting through our literary treasures. Each book received a Freadom Books information card and a distinctive sticker that boldly proclaims its status as a banned book in a Florida public school. It was a labor of love, a testament to our belief in the power of literature, and a symbol of our determination to fight for the freedom to read.

The mission of Freadom Books is simple yet profound. We find books on the banned list and we distribute them to Little Free Libraries all across our community and the state. We’ve started a network composed of books lovers and rebel readers who want to ensure educational freedoms and access. Our efforts this weekend marked a significant step forward in our goal to distribute 500 banned books by the end of the year. But make no mistake, the work is far from over. To bring about lasting change, we must come together, raise awareness, and let our elected officials know that we stand firmly against book bans in our schools.

The right to read and explore diverse perspectives is fundamental to our democracy. It’s a right we must fiercely protect, ensuring that all voices are heard, and all stories are shared. Together, we can raise awareness and create a future where no book is banned, and every story can be heard!