Books Save Lives strives to fight book bans and champion diverse voices
Book bans and challenges doubled in 2022 — reaching the highest rate ever — and have disproportionately targeted books by diverse authors. These bans now affect more than 4 million students across the U.S., infringing on their freedom to read.
But WNDB is fighting back — because we recognize the power of a diverse book. They make a child feel seen. They teach empathy and resilience. They can even save lives.
Via our Books Save Lives initiative, we are taking meaningful action to make our world a more empathetic and accepting place by addressing censorship and championing diverse books. Books Save Lives employs a three-pronged approach:
- We support the diverse writers and illustrators affected by book challenges by purchasing their titles to buoy lost income and organizing author chats with educators to connect them with students. WNDB is coordinating 10 author chats this fall and is donating challenged books nationwide.
- We support the teachers and librarians in affected communities with our Books Save Lives grant, which gives up to $10,000 in diverse titles to make their shelves more inclusive. Read more about our inaugural five grantees here.
- We support grassroots organizations, like the Florida Freedom to Read Project that are combatting bans and challenges in their local communities. We've provided printed resources and book donations to our partners, and we've also sent our team members to speak at local school board meetings and read-ins.
Together, we will make a difference. Join us today to fight censorship and celebrate diverse voices!
