Announcing Our Vermont Fest 2026 Keynote: Amanda Jones
We are thrilled to announce that Amanda Jones, acclaimed advocate and author of That Librarian, will be joining us as the keynote speaker for Vermont Fest on Friday, November 6, 2026.
In an era where libraries have become the front lines of a national cultural debate, Amanda’s voice is more vital than ever. Her journey is one of resilience, courage, and a deep-seated commitment to the fundamental right to read.
Keynote Address: “That Librarian”
Preparing, Protecting, and Being Proactive in Standing Up for Intellectual Freedom
Libraries are currently facing an unprecedented wave of book challenges, and librarians often find themselves unfairly targeted. In this powerful address, Amanda will share her personal journey from being the target of a targeted harassment campaign to reclaiming her life and her profession.
Attendees will learn about:
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Actionable Resources: Apps, websites, and tools to strengthen library policies.
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Personal Resilience: How to prepare for the mental and physical toll of standing up for intellectual freedom.
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Coalition Building: Strategies to better inform and engage your local community to protect library access for all.
“My silence to the pro-censorship movement would be my compliance, and I will not be complicit in the marginalization of any group in our society.” — Amanda Jones
About Amanda Jones
Amanda has spent twenty-three years as a school librarian in the very same school she attended as a child. In 2022, she made national headlines when she refused to be silenced after being targeted by extremists for speaking out at a public library board meeting. Her fight for justice led her to the courtroom and inspired her book, That Librarian: Fighting Book Banners in Today’s America.
Her accolades speak to her dedication to the field:
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2021 School Library Journal Co-Librarian of the Year
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2021 Library Journal Mover and Shaker
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2020 Louisiana Librarian of the Year
Beyond the awards, Amanda is a grassroots leader. She serves as the Executive Director of the Livingston Parish Library Alliance and is a co-founding member of Louisiana Citizens Against Censorship. When she isn’t “fighting the good fight,” you can find her enjoying a Louisiana crawfish boil or spending time with her family and her cat, Juno Mars.
Join Us at Vermont Fest
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from one of the most influential voices in modern librarianship. Amanda’s story is a testament to the power of “book joy” and the necessity of ensuring every child sees themselves reflected on library shelves.
Mark your calendars for Friday, Nov 6, 2026!