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Intellectual Freedom: Essential Strategies in Challenging Times
with Becky Russell
In an era of heightened book challenges and material bans, library and K–12 professionals are navigating increasing pressure while upholding their commitment to equitable access and intellectual freedom. This mini-course empowers educators and librarians with essential knowledge, practical strategies, and renewed confidence to protect the right to read, learn, and thrive. Participants will leave equipped to champion First Amendment principles and ensure inclusive learning opportunities for every member of their community.
Today’s educators and library professionals are navigating a rapidly shifting landscape where debates over books and learning materials can shape community trust, student experiences, and the vitality of public institutions. This mini‑course offers a clear, empowering path forward, helping you strengthen your decision‑making, communicate with confidence, and create environments where curiosity and diverse perspectives can flourish. Through real‑world scenarios, actionable tools, and expert‑guided insights, you’ll build the skills needed to uphold your professional values while supporting every learner’s right to discover, question, and engage.
Audience: Library professionals at all levels, K–12 educators, specialists, and support staff, public‑sector leaders and practitioners serving community members at large
| The Details | |
| Dates | Starts June 8 |
| Time | Asynchronous |
| Cost | $145 |
| Location | Online |
| Graduate Credits Available | 1 |
Purpose & Outcomes
- Gain deeper knowledge of strategies such as active listening and appreciative inquiry to help de-escalate challenging situations
- Examine the criteria of exemplary library and school districts’ materials selection policies and reconsideration forms and realize the ways such policies protect them.
- Know where to find help and support at the local, state and national levels around challenges/bans.
- Explore and share ideas for advocacy and outreach.
Becky Russell
Facilitator
Becky Russell teaches School Librarian Certification courses at CU Denver and offers additional professional development for librarians through Infopeople.
From 2010 to 2022, she served as the Colorado K–12 School Library Consultant and Interim Supervisor at the Colorado Department of Education’s Colorado State Library, followed by two years focused on early literacy initiatives. Becky also worked as a reference and on‑call librarian at the Denver Public Library for two years. Before transitioning to statewide service, she spent 24 years teaching K–12 students in Missouri, Texas, and Boulder, Colorado, earning National Board Certification and the Boulder Valley School District Impact on Education Award as a teacher‑librarian.
She served as the Colorado Association of Libraries Intellectual Freedom co‑chair in 2023.
Becky is passionate about helping learners of all ages reach their potential through appreciative inquiry and active listening. Her core strengths include instructional leadership, intentionality, reflection, and collaboration.