Join your library colleagues to discuss the importance of freedom of speech and how as library staff we can respond to people that express their extreme opinions and ideas in our libraries and on library social media. 

Experience a FRANK Talk before scheduling one for your library. Free, thought-provoking discussions on important issues facing our communities. Produced in partnership with Arizona Humanities and the Arizona State Library, Archives & Public Records.

In the U.S. we protect freedom of speech and expression. This means an individual or a community may articulate their opinions and ideas without fear of retaliation, censorship, or legal sanction. But what happens when the speech reflects hatred or promotes violence? What is an “extremist” belief? Who ascribes to extremist views? Public opinions have always differed, but in recent years we have seen an increase in extreme views expressed in person and through social media. How do we respond, connect, and relate to people who espouse extreme beliefs? We may avoid people who think and believe differently from us — especially when what we hear is loud, passionate, or threatening. But rather than just avoid, how can we safely and productively respond? Join us for an exploration of the impact of and responses to extremism now.

At the end of the program, we will discuss how libraries can book virtual or in-person FRANK Talks and answer any questions you may have about the program.

This program is being cohosted by the Arizona State Library and the Arizona Humanities.  For questions about this event please contact dthrockmorton@azlibrary.gov.