Robert Jamerson Memorial Library Champions:

Teen Reading Freedom Through Books Unbanned Initiative

Free digital library cards available to teens and young adults ages 13–21 across the United States

APPOMATTOX, Va. — The J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library is proud to announce its support of the Brooklyn Public Library’s Books Unbanned initiative, a national program founded in 2022 to defend the right of teens and young adults to access information, stories, and ideas free from censorship. As part of this commitment, the Jamerson Library is encouraging patrons to take advantage of a free Books Unbanned library card, now available to young readers across the country.

About Books Unbanned

Books Unbanned is a groundbreaking initiative of the Brooklyn Public Library that provides teens and young adults ages 13–21 throughout the United States with free digital library cards granting access to eBooks, audiobooks, and other digital resources—including titles that have been banned or challenged in communities across the country. The program ensures that young readers can explore diverse perspectives, form their own opinions, and read privately, safely, and without restriction, regardless of where they live.

What a Books Unbanned Card Provides

A free Books Unbanned digital library card gives eligible teens and young adults access to:

eBooks and audiobooks available online through partner libraries nationwide
Diverse perspectives and voices, including banned and challenged titles
A private, safe, and unrestricted reading experience

A Note for Families

The Jamerson Library encourages teens under the age of 18 to speak with their parents or guardians before applying for a Books Unbanned card. We recognize that not every book is right for every family, and we fully support each family’s right to make informed decisions about what is appropriate for their children. At the same time, we stand firmly behind the freedom to read and the importance of ensuring young people have access to a broad range of ideas and stories.

How to Apply

Teens and young adults ages 13–21 anywhere in the United States can apply for a free Brooklyn National Teen BPL eCard online. To learn more about the Books Unbanned initiative, visit bklynlibrary.org/books-unbanned. To apply for a card directly, visit bklynlibrary.org/card/teens.php.

Books Unbanned Coalition Partners

The following public libraries have joined the Books Unbanned coalition as partners in defending and expanding the freedom to read:

To explore the full Books Unbanned coalition, visit booksunbanned.com.