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Celebrating Freedom: GFWC Marks Banned Books Week and Promotes Legacy of Literacy

October 2, 2007

Perhaps no other issue is as close to the heart of GFWC clubwomen as literacy and the support of public libraries. GFWC founder Jane Cunningham Croly, one of the earliest American newspaperwomen, was an avowed supporter of freedoms protected by the Bill of Rights, and throughout our history GFWC clubwomen have demonstrated a passion for promoting literacy and the work of libraries across the nation. By the 1930s—after four decades of Federation unity—GFWC clubs had founded more than 474 free public libraries and 4,655 traveling libraries.

In fact, the American Library Association confirms that 85 percent of all libraries in the United States have been founded by GFWC clubs.

In 1997, GFWC established Libraries 2000 and pledged to deliver at least $12.5 million worth of books and materials to public libraries and public school libraries. By June 2002, GFWC members had surpassed this goal, eventually raising more than $13.5 million for public libraries. Inspired by the Federation's accomplishments in the area of literacy, International Past President Ernie Shriner (2004-2006) challenged members to focus on combating the startling low literacy rate in the U.S. and reaching students in need, setting a goal to train 7,500 new literacy tutors and tutor 10,000 students by 2006.

Local clubs have worked hard to fulfill the mission of supporting reading and library services, as well.

• In 1899, there were no libraries in Oregon, and the Portland Women's Club was committed to the development of a state library system. Banding together with other women's clubs to form the Oregon Federation of Women's Clubs, their first project was a state library bill which, after a vigorous campaign, was passed.
• The New Hampshire Federation of Women's Clubs purchased a bookmobile in 1938 with proceeds from the sale of a book, The Folk Tales of New Hampshire, which was compiled and edited by a past president of the club. The bookmobile held revolving shelves and more than 600 books.
• In 1956, the Begley Tuesday Study Club of Minnesota won a state award for the new commuity library they created; the club took responsibility for hiring a librarian, selecting books, and administering the library.
• GFWC Cranford Club, one of the oldest in Connecticut, developed and published an innovative and highly marketbale booklet, "Let's Go to the Library" in the 1980s. The book was designed to introduce the young child to the library, teaching beginning library skills through the story and drawings of Edgar the Eager Beaver. Clubs members, who represented varying age groups, printed and published the book as a fundraising effort as well as a service to the community. They were successful on both counts.

Today, clubwomen continue to support libraries with book drives across the nation. And our legacy of literacy is visible throughout the history of GFWC’s work.

• GFWC's literacy program extended internationally through a partnership with CARE in 1962-64, and the Federation developed the first literacy programs of their kind in eight countries: Costa Rica, Guatemala, Hong Kong, India, Iran, Mexico, Pakistan, and Turkey. A total contribution of $135,000 enabled the Federation to send literacy kits to each of those international destinations.
• The continuing education program co-sponsored by Shell Oil Company resulted in scholarship funds totaling $1,054,501. Workshops and training programs were developed through new GFWC Division of Leadership Mobilization; more than $50,000 worth of scholarships were provided for Native Americans; and 871 new libraries were founded.

»Read more about current club activities related to literacy and education.

At the 1948 Annual International Convention in Portland, Oregon, GFWC members passed their first resolution to support libraries. The resolution reads in part:

The General Federation of Women's Clubs...recognizes the contributions libraries have made and should continue to make to the national welfare...and supports adequate library funding at all levels; and further [GFWC] urges its member clubs to:

• Continue strong support of existing libraries
• Encourage the extension of library services to all areas
• Strongly encourage the people of their communities to make full and responsible use of their library facilities and services
• Support and encourage enforcement of confidentiality laws.

Supporting local libraries continues to be a Federation priority today. Our Program Department supports a Literacy Program that provides information on tutoring activities and resources available in local communities. In addition, GFWC's Lifelong Learning Program encourages members to participate in the Epsilon Sigma Omicron reading program and support libraries in their communities, with an action plan, awards, and resources.

GFWC is proud to celebrate the achievements of clubwomen across the nation in creating and protecting opportunities for American citizens to learn the joys of reading. As the American Library Association observes Banned Books Week, GFWC joins the chorus in reminding readers to celebrate and protect their democratic freedom to read!