We are a nonpartisan coalition of Utah community members, educators, parents, librarians, and advocacy organizations — all dedicated to preserving Americans’ freedom to choose what we read.
We believe that all Americans have the right to read and access diverse and inclusive literature, free from censorship or discrimination, and that libraries are the foundation for a vibrant and engaged US citizenry.
Let Utah Read recognizes that most Utahns do not support book banning and censorship, and are committed to defending the right of Utah students to read literature that reflects, enhances, and expands their experiences.
Our Mission
We are dedicated to protecting and preserving the right to read, across Utah and for all Utahns.
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To defend our First Amendment right to choose what we read
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To remind legislators that the majority of Utahns support students’ right to access literature that reflects the full range of human experience in their school and public libraries
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To inform the wider Utah public about the harmful effects of book banning and censorship on our children’s education
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To protect and defend a parent’s right to guide the reading choices of their children without interfering with the right of other parents to guide their children
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To affirm and support the work of Utah librarians, who are already trained to choose books appropriate for their communities and students
Why We’re Here
To preserve our rights and oppose book bans
Since the passage of HB374 in 2022, book banning and book challenges have increased dramatically across Utah.
On a national scale, legislators have begun proposing state bills that would lead to the arrest of librarians and dictate how libraries and librarians can acquire books. Utah’s legislators have also signaled that they are open to pursuing such legislation in our state. Such surveillance-oriented bills would lead to a chilling effect on freedom of speech, and negatively impact teaching and learning in Utah.
Partners
Let Utah Read is lead by the following coalition partners. Click on the logos for more information about each organization.
ACLU of Utah
Our Mission is to defend and promote the fundamental principles and values embodied in the Bill of Rights and the U.S. Constitution, including the freedom of speech and religion, and the right to privacy, equality and due process for all Utahns.
Visit ACLU Utah here.
Utah Library Association (ULA)
Advocating for libraries and cultivates leadership development to promote library excellence for the Utah library community. Visit ULA here.
EveryLibrary
EveryLibrary helps public, school, and college libraries win funding at the ballot box, ensuring stable funding and access to libraries for generations to come. We also support grassroots groups across the country defend and support their local library against book banning, illicit political interference, and threats of closure. Visit EveryLibrary here.
PEN America
Working to defend and celebrate free expression in the United States and worldwide through the advancement of literature
and human rights. Visit PEN America here.