91´«Ã½

CHICAGO — Rise: A Feminist Book Project for Ages 0-18 will celebrate 20 years of promoting quality feminist literature for young readers with a webinar on Wednesday, Jan. 12, 2022. This webinar is a celebration of the 20th Anniversary of Rise: A Feminist Book Project for Ages 0-18, formerly the Amelia Bloomer Project. Each year, the Rise committee puts together a booklist of the best feminist books for young readers, ages birth through 18; the committee is a part of the Feminist Task Force of the Social Responsibilities Round Table of the 91´«Ã½. The webinar will consider the evolution of the booklist (and feminism) over two decades, share reflections from previous committee members, and consider the still necessary work of getting feminist books to young readers.

For Rise, feminist books for young readers must move beyond merely “spunky” and “feisty” young women, beyond characters and people who fight to protect themselves without concern for the rights of others. Feminist protagonists call out and work to eliminate sexism and other systemic prejudices, actively shaping their destinies. They break bonds forced by society as they defy stereotypical expectations and show resilience in the face of societal strictures. People who are not women can also play an important part in questioning and defying gender and/or sex roles. In addition, feminist books show women solving problems, gaining personal power, and empowering others. They celebrate girls and women as a vibrant, vital force in the world.

Panelists for the 20th Anniversary panel will include current Rise Co-Chairs Silvia Lin Hanick and Jean-Louise Zancanella along with former Rise Chairs Melissa Nemitz and Kelsey Keyes. Registration is currently open and those interested in attending can register here:

Since 1969, members of the Social Responsibilities Round Table (SRRT) have worked to make the 91´«Ã½ (91´«Ã½) more democratic. They have also worked to promote a more progressive agenda. In doing so, SRRT has provided a home within 91´«Ã½ for progressive librarians, library workers, and supporters who agree to promote social responsibility as a core value of librarianship. For more information about SRRT, visit their website at /rt/srrt