BMI Supports "We Are Stronger Than Censorship" Campaign
The EveryLibrary Institute is happy to share that the Book Manufacturers Institute (BMI) is a new fundraising partner for the We Are Stronger Than Censorship initiative.
Our shared commitment is to defend the freedom to read and to ensure that diverse, inclusive books remain accessible in communities facing censorship challenges. BMI’s involvement is a testament to the book industry’s resolve to stand with librarians, educators, authors, and readers against the chilling effects of book bans.
From BMI's Announcement:
In response to the growing surge of book bans across the country, the Book Manufacturers Institute (BMI) is proud to support We Are Stronger Than Censorship, a bold new initiative that empowers readers and the publishing industry with a grassroots, community-driven response. The campaign, led by the IBPA and the EveryLibrary Institute, aims to restore access to quality printed books, particularly those published by independent presses.
Book bans create a chilling effect, forcing librarians and educators to avoid bringing in meaningful, relevant titles—even when they know those books would benefit students and patrons. Independent publishers, often mission-driven and focused on amplifying marginalized perspectives, have been especially hard-hit. Many have experienced sharp declines in sales to schools and libraries, threatening their sustainability and silencing important stories.
The We Are Stronger Than Censorship program is a proactive solution, designed to put those stories back into readers’ hands. To help meet this mission, BMI is calling on its members to contribute to a $16,000 fundraising goal. Once that goal is met, BMI will match the amount, doubling the impact and enabling the donation of 4,000 printed books to communities facing censorship challenges.
How Your Donation Helps:
$160 buys 20 books to respond to 10 local book challenges
$1,600 funds 200 books, addressing 100 book challenges
All donations are tax-deductible and processed through the EveryLibrary Institute, a registered 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Your gift is not just a financial contribution—it’s a powerful statement that you believe in the right to read freely and in the value of printed books as vehicles for education, inclusion, and change.
Make your donation today and stand with us in supporting a future where every story can be told, shared, and celebrated.
To donate or learn more, visit:
https://www.wearestrongerthancensorship.org/bmi_challenge
We know that book bans harm not only readers but also the independent publishers and authors who bring important stories to life. By joining forces with BMI and the broader publishing community, we’re taking a stand to ensure that every voice has the right to be heard. Your contribution of $16, $160, or even $1,600 sends a clear message: censorship has no place in our libraries or our classrooms.
Help us double the impact and put 4,000 printed books into the hands of readers who need them most.
About We Are Stronger Than Censorship
We Are Stronger Than Censorship is a national initiative co-led by the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) and the EveryLibrary Institute. Together, we are committed to defending the freedom to read by empowering readers, supporting independent publishers, and ensuring that diverse voices are heard. Through collaborative efforts with industry partners, authors, and advocates, we work to restore access to inclusive books in communities impacted by censorship.
About IBPA
Founded in 1983, the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) supports independent publishers through advocacy, education, and tools for success. IBPA envisions a world where every independent publisher has access to the knowledge and resources needed to thrive in a diverse and inclusive publishing industry.
About EveryLibrary Institute
EveryLibrary Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting libraries and readers. Through research, training, and advocacy, the Institute empowers librarians, educators, and communities to stand against censorship and ensure that every reader has access to the books they need and deserve.