Book and Periodical Council Statement on the Freedom of Expression and the Freedom to Read
The Book and Periodical Council (BPC) is a Canadian organization that encompasses various associations involved in the literary and publishing sectors. Established in 1975, it aims to advocate for the rights and interests of those engaged in the creation and distribution of books and periodicals. A significant aspect of the BPC's mission is to address concerns surrounding freedom of expression and the freedom to read, particularly in light of increasing censorship efforts. In 1978, the council articulated its commitment to safeguarding these freedoms, emphasizing the public's right to access diverse written materials and the importance of combating any form of suppression. The council believes that the written word is a critical vehicle for free expression. To promote awareness of these issues, the BPC has organized an annual "Freedom to Read Week" since 1984, which serves to highlight the significance of intellectual freedom in Canadian society. This initiative aims to engage the public in discussions about the value of diverse literature and the necessity of protecting the rights of readers and creators alike.
Book and Periodical Council Statement on the Freedom of Expression and the Freedom to Read
Type of work: Tract
Published: 1978
Authors: Members of Toronto’s Book and Periodical Development Council
Subject matter: One-page statement denouncing censorship
Significance: This tract expresses the anticensorship position of a coalition of Canadian organizations representing authors, librarians, publishers, and book and magazine distributors
Originally established in 1975 as the Book and Periodical Development Council, the Book and Periodical Council is an umbrella organization for some twenty-four associations involved in the writing, editing, publishing, manufacturing, distribution, selling, and lending of books and periodicals in Canada.
In 1978 the council published a statement setting forth its basic tenets regarding freedom of expression and the freedom to read. Concerned about growing efforts to censor printed materials and their creators, council members wished to “assert the public interest in the preservation of the freedom to read.” In concluding its statement, the council affirmed its “absolute commitment to combatting, in whatever form it takes, the suppression of books and periodicals because we believe that the written word is the ultimate mode of free expression.” Since 1984 the Book and Periodical Council, through its Freedom of Expression Committee, has sponsored a national “Freedom to Read Week” in February to focus public attention on intellectual freedom.