Fight for the First: Amplifying Voices for Libraries and the Right to Read

Across the country, school boards, library boards, and extremist groups are banning books at an alarming rate, threatening readers' fundamental freedoms and libraries' role in democracy. The EveryLibrary Institute (ELI) is helping local parents, families, and stakeholders fight back. Through Fight for the First, we empower local communities to organize, advocate, and win against censorship. Since April 2023, we have helped over 125 communities and nine statewide organizations successfully oppose book bans and defend the right to read.

Review of Recent Book Ban Polls and Voter Surveys

The EveryLibrary Institute is collecting and analyzing polling and surveys about book bans, anti-access legislation, and the perception of libraries/librarians to help advocates quickly find and interpret results. We have compiled voter-facing polls conducted by issue advocacy groups, new media, and research institutions since our previous review of book ban polls and voter surveys in January 2023.

Taking Students Off Line: Sen. Ted Cruz’s Misguided Attack on E-Rate Hotspots and the FCC

Senator Ted Cruz has introduced a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution aimed at nullifying the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) 2024 rule that permits E-Rate funding to support Wi-Fi hotspot lending programs for students.

FundLibraries is the One-Stop Crowdfunding Platform for Libraries

Libraries and literacy projects across the countries are facing new challenges in securing the funding they need to thrive. FundLibraries.org from the EveryLibrary Institute is bridging a gap by providing an accessible and effective crowdfunding platform specifically designed for libraries, Friends groups, small non-profits, and literacy initiatives. By connecting these essential institutions with passionate donors, FundLibraries.org enables communities to support projects that enhance education, access, and intellectual freedom.

New Policy Brief - Caution & Concerns: Potential Effects of Indiana Senate Bill 283 (2025) on County Governance and Finances

The Indiana State Senate is currently reviewing Senate Bill 283 (2025), a sweeping proposal that would eliminate public libraries’ status as municipal corporations and shift their governance, financial, and operational responsibilities to county governments. The EveryLibrary Institute’s policy brief, titled Caution & Concerns: Potential Effects of Indiana Senate Bill 283 on County Governance and Finance, highlights the significant and largely unexplored implications of this bill.

Why Building a “Million Americans for Libraries” Movement is the Most Important Thing We Can Do Right Now

Libraries across America are under attack. Regressive political actors are spending millions to push false narratives, sow distrust, and undermine one of the most fundamental institutions of our democracy. Book bans, funding cuts, and misinformation campaigns are eroding public confidence in libraries at an alarming rate.

Celebrating Dr. Tasslyn Magnusson: CBC and Every Child a Reader’s First-Ever Free Speech Award Honoree

We are thrilled to share the wonderful news that our very own Dr. Tasslyn Magnusson, Policy Fellow at the EveryLibrary Institute, has been honored with the 2025 Children’s Book Council (CBC) and Every Child a Reader’s Free Speech Award. This recognition shines a spotlight on Tasslyn’s indispensable contributions to defending the right to read — a core mission we champion every day at the EveryLibrary Institute.

ELI in the News 2024

The EveryLibrary Institute has continued to be recognized in 2024, with our work featured prominently in national news outlets, library industry trades, and advocacy platforms.

Senate Fails to Act on Special District Grant Accessibility Act Before 118th Congress Adjourns

Volume 7, Issue 2 - The Political Librarian - Fall 2024

The EveryLibrary Institute Presents 2024 Fall Issue of The Political Librarian Journal.