On Oct. 7, the Varsity Theater (1207 25th Street) will be showing The Librarians, a 2025 documentary about librarians on the frontlines in the fight against censorship, the impact of book restrictions on students, and the essential role of intellectual freedom in democracy. Following the showing, a small group will share how the issues raised in the movie are being experienced in Iowa and what communities can do. Showtime is at 6:30 p.m. with tickets for $12, $9 for seniors and students, and $7 for Varsity Cinema members.

The following day, Oct. 8, Drake University is proud to host Amanda Jones, activist, author, and librarian. Her book, That Librarian: Fighting Book Banning in America, explores the importance of libraries serving a wide range of perspectives and the pushback she and other librarians have faced speaking up for the right to read. The fireside chat will be moderated by the current American Library Association president, Sam Helmick.  A book signing will follow the presentation, and a range of challenged and censored titles will be available for purchase from Beaverdale Books.  The event is at 7 p.m. in the Olmsted Center, Parents Hall.  The event is free, and free parking passes (if needed) can be obtained through registration on Eventbrite.

— Hope Bibens, Cowles Library