Heather Ahmie
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heatherahmie.bsky.social
Heather Ahmie
@heatherahmie.bsky.social
550 followers 780 following 110 posts
Advocate for intellectual freedom, inclusive & diverse bookshelves, and the power of children's literature to inspire empathy and curiosity. Additional all things cats, coffee, and crafts!
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heatherahmie.bsky.social
Totally mesmerized by this stack of The Memory of Borrowed Books by @megzbookz.bsky.social and @readlandmark.bsky.social

Come grab a copy from @pubspotlight.bsky.social #ARSL2026 Booth 93!
September 17, 2026 at 1:10 PM
Reposted by Heather Ahmie
pubspotlight.bsky.social
By @heatherahmie.bsky.social and spot on as kids return to classrooms and other social situations: Stealing the Spotlight: A Compassionate Take from Books About Taking includes a title from @barefootbooks.bsky.social and one from @lantanapub.bsky.social www.publisherspotlight.com/stealing-the...
Stealing the Spotlight: A Compassionate Take from Books About Taking - Publisher Spotlight
A long time ago, a young child stood facing a very tempting, child-height lollipop display at the endcap of a local grocery store. The flavors were intriguing. The branding was vibrant. The temptation...
www.publisherspotlight.com
September 2, 2026 at 10:25 AM
heatherahmie.bsky.social
Enjoying some picture books from #NortonYoungReaders Great for winding down right before nap time apparently.

@pubspotlight.bsky.social
@wwnorton.com

#officecat #SashaHRManager
August 10, 2026 at 4:25 PM
Reposted by Heather Ahmie
ebyrbooks.bsky.social
Join us! 😀
pubspotlight.bsky.social Publisher Spotlight @pubspotlight.bsky.social · Jun 9
It’s #TranslationTuesday a good time to register for this webinar next week June 16, 2026 3pm ET hosted by @ebyrbooks.bsky.social us02web.zoom.us/webinar/regi...
June 9, 2026 at 7:32 PM
Reposted by Heather Ahmie
pubspotlight.bsky.social
Meet prolific illustrator Ingela P Arrhenius
youtu.be/73KJXQ7v6EE?...
Studiohoffmann presents Gab’n’ Doodle with guest Ingela P. Arrhenius
YouTube video by Mark Hoffmann
youtu.be
June 5, 2026 at 1:35 PM
Reposted by Heather Ahmie
pubspotlight.bsky.social
Learn about new and forthcoming children's books in translation from #NorthSouth @ebyrbooks.bsky.social @redcometpressbooks.bsky.social @florisbooks.bsky.social @geckopress.bsky.social and more Tuesday, June 16 at 3 pm EDT Register here us02web.zoom.us/webinar/regi...
June 5, 2026 at 2:51 PM
Reposted by Heather Ahmie
pubprosabb.bsky.social
Literacy and learning thrive when information and stories can be shared freely. We urge lawmakers to reject this legislation that directly threatens the principles of intellectual freedom and our First Amendment rights.

#VoteNOonHR7661 #VoteNOonHR8705 #VoteNOonHR2616
Graphic stating “There are three censorship bills in the House and Senate that pose a direct danger to the freedom to read” accompanied by a danger symbol. The Bad: HR 7661 aka the Stop the Sexualization of Children Act. Point one: uses broad and vague language that doesn’t clearly define the terms sexually oriented materials. Point two: explicitly includes gender dysphoria and “transgenderism” targeting LGBTQ+ stories. Point three: expands government control over education and undermines the 1st amendment The Worse: HR 8705 aka the CHARLIE Act. Point one: limits teachers from discussing topics like gender identity, racial history, and social justice. Point two: vague and politically charged, this bill reeks of radical indoctrination. Point three: potential to weaponize federal education funding and limit teacher discretion. Point four: named after Charlie Kirk. The Downright Ugly: HR 2616 aka “PROTECT Kids Act”. Point one: will force teachers to out LGBTQ+ students. Point two: contains no safe harbor language for at-risk students in potentially abusive households. Point three: restricts educational freedom and safe expression.
June 2, 2026 at 7:52 PM
heatherahmie.bsky.social
Check out my latest @pubspotlight.bsky.social article highlighting @bluedotkidspress.bsky.social and their dedication to creating outstanding #kidlit in a sustainable and imaginative way.
May 13, 2026 at 2:46 PM
heatherahmie.bsky.social
One of the things I love the most about picture books is the ability to introduce topics that can be difficult to discuss in a gentle and accessible way. These stories don't just support young readers, they open the door for meaningful conversations.

@florisbooks.bsky.social @nubeocho.bsky.social
Carrying Home in Our Hearts: Picture Books That Illuminate Refugee Experiences - Publisher Spotlight
Picture books pack the power to introduce, share, and discuss a wide range of topics, including current events that can often be difficult for young minds to comprehend. Working with tools like imagin...
www.publisherspotlight.com
April 21, 2026 at 2:42 PM
Reposted by Heather Ahmie
maddow.bsky.social
“‘All I’m going to say is that I stand by my decision,’ she said…

“Much of the audience at the board meeting broke into cheers and applause after her statement.

Chants of ‘shame’ were heard as board members voted to fire her...”

www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2026/...
Tenn. library director fired over refusal to move LGBTQ+ books to adult section
A county board near Nashville voted to dismiss Luanne James, who said she stands by her decision, in the latest clash in a national debate over access to books.
www.washingtonpost.com
April 3, 2026 at 1:49 AM
heatherahmie.bsky.social
Call your reps! They work for us. Remind them of that as often as possible. As someone who can talk to crowds of people but get anxiety making important calls, scripts like this and those provided by @5calls.org are perfect for getting your thoughts in order.
pubprosabb.bsky.social Publishing Professionals Against Book Bans @pubprosabb.bsky.social · Apr 1
You don’t need a lengthy script — all you need is your voice. Find your reps by using @5calls.org and let them know how you feel about #HR7661
April 3, 2026 at 4:26 PM
heatherahmie.bsky.social
Stay informed! These bills and resolutions intentionally use legalese and vague language to keep us out of the loop. Here is a breakdown of #HR7661 that hits the nail on the head.
pubprosabb.bsky.social Publishing Professionals Against Book Bans @pubprosabb.bsky.social · Apr 2
#HR7661 is a national book censorship bill that we should all be aware of. Find more details below and follow for updates and actions you can take to fight back.
“What is H.R. 7661” atop a logo that reads Publishing Professionals Against Book Bans “House Resolution 7661 ( H.R. 7661) is a National Book Censorship Bill introduced in February 2026 by Mary Miller (R-IL). It seeks to modify the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 by prohibiting the use of funds under the act ‘to develop, implement, facilitate, host, or promote any program or activity for, or to provide or promote literature or other materials to, children under the age of 18 that includes sexually oriented material, and for other purposes.’” “H.R. 7661 is an anti-trans bill that defines ‘sexually oriented material’ as anything broaching the topics of ‘gender dysphoria or transgender OSM’ (quote credit to Book Riot)” “Couched in regressive language purporting to protect children, the bill aims to ban books by and about marginalized groups. This bill is concerning because it limits the use of certain funds, but it is dangerous in the precedent it could create.” “Instead of making our public schools and libraries stronger and moving us all forward together, some politicians are choosing to waste critical resources and time on distraction and division. It’s time our leaders get serious about what works: fully funding our public schools and libraries so we can continue working together to improve our neighborhoods, where most of our children learn and grow and where we all can have a say.”
April 3, 2026 at 4:24 PM
Reposted by Heather Ahmie
archeryfan93.bsky.social
This
April 3, 2026 at 3:33 AM
Reposted by Heather Ahmie
pubspotlight.bsky.social
Looking for #NationalPoetryMonth titles? This Is Not a Small Voice "belongs on all school and library shelves" @nosycrowus.bsky.social Booth 1530 #PLA2026

ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2025/11/20/t...
This is Not a Small Voice: Poems by Black Poets selected by Traci N. Todd, illustrated by Jade Orlando
This is Not a Small Voice: Poems by Black Poets selected by Traci N. Todd, illustrated by Jade Orlando. Nosy Crow, 2025. 9798887772042 Rating: 1-5 (5 is an excellent or a Starred review) 5 Format: …
ysbookreviews.wordpress.com
April 3, 2026 at 3:03 PM
Reposted by Heather Ahmie
librarianjones.com
This is a verified GoFundMe for librarian Luanne James from the Rutherford County Library Alliance.
gofund.me/f7704eb98
Read what happened to this hero: www.newschannel5.com/news/rutherf...
Rutherford County Library Board fires director after she refuses to relocate 132 children's books
Dr. Lu-anne James called the board's order to move books with LGBTQ+ themes to the adult section an unlawful act of viewpoint discrimination.
www.newschannel5.com
March 31, 2026 at 9:48 PM
Reposted by Heather Ahmie
ala-booklist.bsky.social
Looking for recommendations for young readers? Then join us 4/21 for our #PictureBooks webinar feat. upcoming titles that will spark a love of reading from:
🪹 #Waxwing
🦆 @wwnortonlibrary.bsky.social
🌕 @pubspotlight.bsky.social
🏰 #DisneyPublishing
🌉 @charlesbridge.bsky.social
RSVP: bit.ly/3PDvyyi
Promotional graphic for upcoming Booklist webinar PROMISING PICTURE BOOKS happening Tuesday, April 21 at 2 p.m. ET / 11 a.m. PT
March 30, 2026 at 3:33 PM
heatherahmie.bsky.social
Come learn all the mindfulness tricks for your trip home from #txla26 with @bluedotkidspress.bsky.social and #RobynMcGrath
pubspotlight.bsky.social Publisher Spotlight @pubspotlight.bsky.social · Mar 29
Today at 3pm Robyn McGrath signs WIDE OPEN SPACES published by @bluedotkidspress.bsky.social Booth 625 #TXLA26 “Slow down, take a deep breath—and make time for this gentle ode to mindfulness” www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews...
March 29, 2026 at 5:47 PM
heatherahmie.bsky.social
Beyond proud to have this librarian fighting for the right to read in my community! #StopBookBans

www.huffpost.com/entry/tennes...
'An Inspiration To All': Librarian Stands Firm Against Order To Move LGBTQ+ Books
A Tennessee librarian said she isn't caving to an order she described as a clear violation of the First Amendment.
www.huffpost.com
March 24, 2026 at 7:35 PM
heatherahmie.bsky.social
It’s inspiring to see Director Luanne James stand up for fREADom and the right to read. Many in Rutherford Co., TN have shown up to show where we stand and continue to express our concern for the obvious censorship of the LGBTQIA+ community in our public libraries.

#IStandWithLuanne #StopBookBans
Rutherford County library director refuses to remove 190 children’s books
Rutherford County Library System Director Luanne James said she will not comply with a directive to relocate more than 190 children’s books from the kids section to the adult section.
www.wkrn.com
March 20, 2026 at 3:52 PM
heatherahmie.bsky.social
What a powerhouse #kidlit matchup! Can't wait to hear this discussion!
pubspotlight.bsky.social Publisher Spotlight @pubspotlight.bsky.social · Mar 18
Help spread the word about the TIME CORRECTION for next week’s @usbby.bsky.social webinar!
usbby.bsky.social USBBY @usbby.bsky.social · Mar 18
Time correction! Please note that this event will take place on Zoom 3/24 at NOON ET/9 AM PT
March 19, 2026 at 3:15 PM
Reposted by Heather Ahmie
pubspotlight.bsky.social
Friday, March 20 at Noon author Katie Delcid will sign WHEN YOU FEEL at Booth 647 #MontessoriEvent Katie is 1 of 3 authors who collaborated with Generation Hope to create this story w/ @shoutmousepress.bsky.social’s project to develop young authors and artists www.shoutmousepress.org/authors/katie
March 18, 2026 at 8:51 PM
Reposted by Heather Ahmie
pubspotlight.bsky.social
Congratulations #CicadaBooks @florisbooks.bsky.social @postwavebooks.bsky.social @barefootbooks.bsky.social @littleislandbooks.bsky.social #TapiocaStories @redcometpressbooks.bsky.social @tigertalesbooks.bsky.social @flowerpotpress.bsky.social @crestonbooks.bsky.social @helvetiq.bsky.social
cover of THE MUSEUM OF SHAPES, THE GRUMPY GHOST UPSTAIRS, PENCIL'S BEST STORY EVER, KWESI AND NANA RUBY LEARN TO SWIM,DINOSAUR PIE, CROCO, CHARLEY MOUSE CLEANS HOUSE, HANK AND FRANK, WHY DOI OKAPIS LOOK SO FUNNY? HOW DO SEEDS GROW INTO GARDENS? FIGHT FOR THE RIGHT TO READ, and LICE
March 19, 2026 at 1:54 PM
Reposted by Heather Ahmie
heykellyjensen.bsky.social
The nationwide book ban bill is now entering the House of Representatives for consideration. Here's everything you need to know about HR 7661, including next steps to take in helping defeat this anti-LGBTQ, anti-intellectual, pro-voucher bill before it goes any farther: bookriot.com/hr7661-advan...
The Nationwide Book Ban Bill Moves to the House: How to Take Action Now
The nationwide book ban bill, HR 7661, has progressed out of committee and into the House. Here's what you need to know to take action.
bookriot.com
March 18, 2026 at 12:27 PM
Reposted by Heather Ahmie
heykellyjensen.bsky.social
200 books are being moved from their appropriate spots in YA and youth sections into the adult section in Rutherford County Public Libraries (TN). This is to appease book banners and the Secretary of State, who demanded removals based on Trump EOs.

It's still a ban.

fox17.com/news/local/r...
Rutherford County community members speak for and against proposed book restrictions
Community members gathered Monday evening for the Rutherford County Library System Board meeting as debate continues over proposed book restrictions.
fox17.com
March 17, 2026 at 12:15 PM
Reposted by Heather Ahmie
pubspotlight.bsky.social
Lots of celebrate on this @cbc #NotableSocialStudies #kidsbook list! MY HOME IS IN MY BACKPACK from @florisbooks.bsky.social FIGHT FOR THE RIGHT TO READ from @crestonbooks.bsky.social and 4 from @redcometpressbooks.bsky.social including ORIGINhttps://cbcbooks.org/cbc-book-lists/nsstb-2026/
The Traveling Taco, Giving Thanks with Halmoni, and Fortune Cookies are also from Red Comet Press Books
March 11, 2026 at 2:39 PM