When Philanos Board Members Renee Gordon and Ann Marie McGee attended the United Philanthropy Forum's Philanthropy Infrastructure Conference in Washington, DC, this summer, they didn't expect a conversation about libraries to become one of the conference's most enduring takeaways. Their meeting with filmmaker Kim A. Snyder, director of The Librarians, left a lasting impression and has remained especially meaningful as Banned Books Week approaches. Read more

Kim's passion for libraries, intellectual freedom, and the essential role librarians play in our communities was both inspiring and thought-provoking. The conversation reminded Renee and Ann Marie that philanthropy is about more than grantmaking—it is also about supporting the institutions that foster learning, encourage curiosity, and help build informed, engaged communities.

As Banned Books Week (October 4–10) begins, that conversation feels especially relevant. This year's theme, "Let Books Be. Protect the Freedom to Read," invites all of us to reflect on why access to a broad range of ideas matters - not only for readers, but for the health and vitality of our communities.

At Philanos, we believe philanthropy begins with curiosity. Giving circles thrive when members bring diverse perspectives, ask thoughtful questions, and engage in meaningful dialogue about the issues affecting their communities. Books - and the libraries that make them accessible - help us expand our understanding of the people and communities we serve.

Banned Books Week is not about telling people what they should read. Rather, it is a reminder of the importance of preserving every individual's opportunity to explore ideas, think critically, and make those choices for themselves. That principle aligns closely with the values of collective giving: listening, learning, and making informed decisions that strengthen our communities.

If you haven't yet read our earlier Thoughts From the Field article inspired by meeting Kim Snyder, we invite you to revisit it here. As you celebrate Banned Books Week, consider visiting your local library, reading a frequently challenged book, or simply thanking the librarians who help ensure knowledge and ideas remain accessible to all.

Sometimes the most meaningful moments at a philanthropy conference happen between the scheduled sessions. For Renee and Ann Marie, meeting Kim Snyder was one of those moments - a reminder that the freedom to read, learn, and engage with diverse perspectives is fundamental to the vibrant communities philanthropy seeks to support.