FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 24, 2025
Libraries across Canada are celebrating the 41st annual Freedom to Read Week, taking place this year from February 23 to March 1, 2025. This national campaign highlights the importance of freedom of expression, challenges censorship and encourages open access to diverse ideas and perspectives.
This year’s campaign visuals feature blooms crafted from the pages of books, letters and newspapers, representing the diverse knowledge and perspectives that flourish when ideas are free to circulate. The bee collects the knowledge like nectar, symbolizing the gathering and transformation of information into something meaningful. Like honey taking on the flavour of the flowers from which it comes, our perspectives are shaped by sources of information. If we eliminate sources, we forgo opportunities for different perspectives and a richer garden.
Quotes
“It’s more important than ever for libraries to defend free expression and open dialogue. Freedom to Read Week is more than an event – it’s a call to action, reminding us that the right to read, write and explore diverse perspectives is fundamental to a free and democratic society.” – Åsa Kachan, Chair, Canadian Urban Libraries Council
“Everyone deserves having the freedom to read and access information. When we protect the freedom to read, we protect the cornerstone of an informed society. Canadian libraries are united in safeguarding open access to knowledge for all citizens. Together, we can keep access to ideas open for everyone.” – Matthew Rohweder, President, Ontario Library Association
“We must vigilantly defend the freedom to read – not just books, but the entire ecosystem of free expression, protecting both creators and readers.” – Book and Periodical Council
“Library and Archives Canada is proud to champion Freedom to Read Week. Intellectual freedom empowers individuals to explore ideas, challenge perspectives, and engage in open dialogue. Upholding this freedom ensures that knowledge remains accessible to all, fostering a more informed and inclusive world.” – Leslie Weir, Librarian and Archivist of Canada
As part of Freedom to Read Week 2025, Canadian libraries will unite as champions for intellectual freedom. Highlights include:
- Spotlight on Censorship – Raising awareness about book challenges and censorship attempts is a key tenet of Freedom to Read Week. Banning books destabilizes and undermines the principles that lie at the heart of a vibrant and inclusive society
- Digital Day of Action – On Monday, February 24, libraries and community partners across Canada shared a unified message on social media in recognition of intellectual freedom using the hashtags #FTRW25 #FreedomToRead
- Community engagement – Participate in events and initiatives presented in libraries and communities across the country to celebrate Freedom to Read Week
About Freedom to Read Week
Freedom to Read Week is an annual event that encourages Canadians to think about and reaffirm their commitment to intellectual freedom. As of 2024, Freedom to Read Week entered a new phase led by Library and Archives Canada, the Canadian Urban Libraries Council, and the Ontario Library Association in partnership with the Book and Periodical Council.
Canadians can learn more and get involved by visiting freedomtoread.ca.
Contact: info@freedomtoread.ca