Public libraries have long been committed to intellectual freedom and to creating inclusive, welcoming spaces for everyone. Increasingly, however, libraries are finding themselves at the centre of political and cultural debates that challenge these fundamental principles.
FOPL invites library staff and board members to join us for an important virtual information session examining Alberta’s Bill 28, emerging intellectual freedom challenges, and what these developments could mean for public libraries in Ontario.
Bill 28 and Trends in Intellectual Freedom
Tuesday, September 22, 2026
1:00–2:30 p.m. ET
Online via Zoom
Across North America, challenges to library collections, services, governance and intellectual freedom continue to grow. In the United States alone, library advocacy organization EveryLibrary is currently tracking dozens of anti-library bills. In Canada, Alberta’s Bill 28 has raised significant concerns about intellectual freedom and the role of local public library governance.
This session will explore:
- Current trends in challenges to intellectual freedom across North America
- The growing pressures facing local library governance and decision-making
- Alberta’s Bill 28 and its implications for the public library sector
- What Ontario public libraries and library boards should be considering now
- Resources available to help libraries respond to intellectual freedom challenges
- Practical steps libraries can take to strengthen their preparedness and protect the principles of intellectual freedom and local governance
This is an important opportunity for Ontario library leaders, staff and trustees to better understand what is happening elsewhere and consider how our sector can be proactive in responding to similar challenges.
Registration
Registration is required.
Registration is FREE for staff and board members of full FOPL member libraries.
For non-members and FOPL Associate members, registration is $45 per person and will be invoiced separately.
Registration closes Thursday, September 17 at the end of the day.
Register for the FOPL Info Session
The Zoom link will be provided to registered participants during the week prior to the session.
We encourage FOPL members to share this opportunity with their library boards and staff, particularly those involved in governance, policy, collections, intellectual freedom and advocacy.