Youth Summit for the Right to Read

Saturday, November 8, 2025
10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Clinton-Macomb Public Library – Main Branch

Registration  |  Facilitator  |  Location  |  Spread the Word!

Are you aged 15-22 and passionate about the freedom to read, access to information, and want to speak up for what matters? Join high school and college students from across Michigan for the Youth Summit for the Right to Read, a one-day event designed to inspire, educate, and empower the next generation of advocates.

We’re thrilled to welcome Kelly Jensen, editor and writer for Book Riot, as the event’s facilitator. Kelly is a leading voice in the national conversation around book challenges and intellectual freedom, known for her work highlighting censorship trends, supporting libraries and educators, and amplifying young people’s roles in defending the right to read. With her experience as a librarian and advocate, Kelly brings powerful insight and practical advice to help attendees turn their passion into meaningful action.

Throughout the day, you’ll connect with other young leaders who care about the right to read and the power of stories. You’ll hear how censorship impacts communities, participate in hands-on advocacy workshops, and learn real-world skills to make your voice heard—from organizing at your school to influencing policy at the state level. Whether you’re new to advocacy or already involved in your community, this event will give you the tools, confidence, and connections to take your impact to the next level.

Thanks to grant supported funding, your FREE registration includes lunch, a custom event t-shirt, and mileage reimbursement up to $100, making it easy to join us for this energizing and meaningful experience.

Come ready to share your voice, learn from others, and stand up for the freedom to read. Together, we can ensure that every story—and every reader—has a place on the shelf.

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Registration

The Youth Summit for the Right to Read is free to attend, but space is limited and resources are provided for each registered participant. By registering, you are committing to attend the full event on Saturday, November 8, from 10:00 AM–3:00 PM at the Clinton-Macomb Public Library. Your participation helps ensure that meals, materials, and mileage reimbursement are used responsibly and that every available spot supports an engaged advocate.

If you register but later find that you’re unable to attend, please let us know at [email protected] as soon as possible so we can offer your spot to another student interested in joining this important day.

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Travel Reimbursement

Attendees who travel to the event are eligible for mileage reimbursement at a rate of $0.70 per mile. This reimbursement is offered to help remove financial barriers and ensure that all interested students can participate, no matter where they’re coming from. Reimbursement forms will be available at the event, and those who submit a completed form on November 8 will receive reimbursement for their round-trip travel—up to $100 total.

Attendees Under 18

We ask that you get permission from a parent or guardian to attend this event.

Facilitator

Location

Spread the Word!

Help us spread the word! We want as many students as possible to join the movement for the right to read. You can support the Youth Summit by sharing our graphics on social media, posting the event details, or printing and distributing flyers in your community, library, or school. Every share helps us reach more young advocates who are ready to speak up.