Anti-Racism Booklist and Resource Guide

Newton Free Library stands in solidarity with our neighbors speaking out against racism.

We stand with the American Library Association and the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners in condemning racism.

We believe Black lives matter.

In order to fulfill our mission, Newton Free Library must commit to building an anti racist library and foster a space that provides welcoming access for all. We also recognize our role in supporting the community in furthering their own education on race, racism and social justice.

Our librarians will continue to develop this curated guide of books and resources about anti-racism, activism, and the history of systemic racism in the United States.

Books Like Us - Youth Winter Reading Challenge

From December 28th to January 31st, Newton Free Library is participating in Beanstack’s Fourth Annual Winter Reading Challenge, sponsored by Simon & Schuster. This year's theme is "Books Like Us"  -- a celebration of diversity, harnessing the transformative power of seeing oneself reflected in a book. Participating communities are invited to explore these books, from authors spanning an array of diverse backgrounds. 

We challenge our kids, tweens, teens & families to read at least 400 minutes during the month and keep track of their reading on our Beanstack site at newtonfreelibrary.beanstack.com.

Thousands of libraries and schools across the nation will encourage their communities to read a target number of minutes and books. Top-performing libraries and schools will earn rewards from Simon & Schuster, including book collections and virtual author visits.

Happy reading, Newton! 

Registration Details

Click here to register for a Beanstack account. Already Registered? Click here to sign in!

Reading Resources

Need ideas for what to read or listen to during this challenge? 

• Check out our Anti-Racism Booklists & Resource Guide with titles and resources for kids, tweens, teens, and their families.
• Teens can take a look at our Immigrant Experience and Queer book lists.