April 20 is Right to Read Day, a national day of action to protect the freedom to read

It’s an important week for libraries—and readers, too. In addition to showing love for our nation’s libraries during National Library Week (April 19 - 25, 2026), the American Library Association (ALA) has designated a day of action. This year, April 20 marks the fourth annual Right to Read Day, where library lovers and advocates everywhere raise their voice for the right to read.

This year's National Library Week theme is "Find Your Joy," and for #RightToReadDay, people of all backgrounds are invited to read freely and explore and discover what sparks joy in them at the library. 

As book censorship efforts continue nationwide, readers are also encouraged to take individual action—not only to defend, protect, and celebrate the right to read freely, but to also support library programs and library workers. More than 100 pro-censorship bills were introduced in state legislatures since January 2025, and at least 40 bills would penalize libraries and library workers with lawsuits, fines, or even jail time for protecting people’s right to read. 

🤝 Wondering what you can do to help? Visit their website for five ways to take action today (all you need is 5 minutes!).

For Right to Read Day, ALA has released its Top 11 Most Challenged Books of 2025:

The ALA has released the State of America's Libraries Report for 2026, reporting 4,235 unique titles challenged in 2025, the second highest ever documented by ALA. Of the unique titles challenged in 2025, 1,671 (40%) represent the lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ people and people of color.

1️⃣ Sold by Patricia McCormick

2️⃣ The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

3️⃣ Gender Queer: A Memoir by Maia Kobabe

4️⃣ Empire of Storms by Sarah J. Maas

5️⃣ (tie) Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo

5️⃣ (tie) Tricks by Ellen Hopkins

7️⃣ A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas

8️⃣ (tie) A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess

8️⃣ (tie) Identical by Ellen Hopkins

8️⃣ (tie) Looking for Alaska by John Green

8️⃣ (tie) Storm and Fury by Jennifer L. Armentrout

There are many ways you can be part of the movement and support your local library and library workers on the ground. For more suggestions on how to get involved and take action in your community, visit the Right to Read Day website.

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