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Join us for a panel discussion as we come together to advocate for the preservation of intellectual freedom. Our communities thrive on diversity and free expression, and it is essential that we amplify the importance of access to a wide range of literary works, even those that may be challenging or controversial. Drake University supports the right to explore different perspectives and defends the freedom of thought and expression. Together, we can ensure that literature remains a powerful tool for enlightenment, empathy, and progress. 

This event is open to all individuals who value the freedom to read, think, and explore new ideas. Whether you're an avid reader, a concerned parent, an educator, or simply someone who believes in the power of literature to challenge and expand our understanding of the world, this panel discussion is an opportunity to stand up for the right to access diverse literary content.

Panelists

Sam Helmick
Sam is the Community and Access Services Coordinator for the Iowa City Public Library in Iowa, the American Library Association (ALA) Councilor for the Iowa Chapter, and current chair of the Iowa Governor’s Commission of Libraries. As the chair of Iowa Library Association’s Intellectual Freedom Committee, Sam is proud of their colleagues’ hard work which was recognized by the 2018 Downs Intellectual Freedom Award. Sam also serves as the Freedom to Read Foundation Bylaws chair for ALA.

Sara Parris
Sarah is the Director of Annie’s Foundation, a Johnston-based non-profit organization fighting against book bans in central Iowa school districts. Their mission: to ensure members of our community have unhindered access to books with characters and subjects that reflect the diversity and complexity of the world around them.

Jason Menke
Jason is a 1994 SJMC grad and current Urbandale School Board member leading the fight against banned books in the Urbandale community. He has been a vocal advocate for the fight to read, providing valuable commentary against the banning of books movement.

DeDe Small
DeDe is a Professor of Education in the Drake School of Education. Her interests and areas of expertise include diversity in children’s literature and reader response choice. DeDe is a strong proponent of open access to materials for children and young adults.

Beth Younger
Beth is an Associate Professor of English in the College of Arts and Sciences. Her research interests focus on popular culture, young adult literature, feminist theory, and women’s studies.

Teri Koch
Teri is the Head of Collection Development and Professor of Librarianship at Drake University’s Cowles Library. She oversees collection development activities and policies, the library liaison program, and collection assessment.