Each March, we acknowledge the systemic oppression and celebrate the significant accomplishments of women throughout history and into the present day. In honor of Women’s History Month, the library’s display shelf features titles from our collection that focus on these women – the ordinary and the extraordinary – who remind us that Women’s History is Our History! From picture books to academic analysis, we have something for every reader on display.
Our juvenile and YA collection has recently expanded after librarian Sara Beth Coffman donated the 60+ titles found on the 2025 Rise: A Feminist Book Project booklist. Sara Beth serves on this award committee, part of the Social Responsibilities Round Table of the American Library Association (ALA). This dedicated team of readers works year-round to identify those books published for young readers (birth-18) which represent quality feminist literature:
For this committee, feminist books for young readers must move beyond merely “spunky” and “feisty” young women, beyond characters and people who fight to protect themselves without concern for the rights of others. Feminist protagonists call out and work to eliminate sexism and other systemic prejudices, actively shaping their destinies. They break bonds forced by society as they defy stereotypical expectations and show resilience in the face of societal strictures. People who are not women can also play an important part in questioning and defying gender and/or sex roles. In addition, feminist books show women solving problems, gaining personal power, and empowering others. They celebrate girls and women as a vibrant, vital force in the world.
To be included on the list, a book must be nominated by a committee member. Then, at least 4 additional readers must agree that it meets the selection criteria for inclusion. These decisions are made over a 4-day deliberation period each January, with the list publishing soon after. The committee also selects a Top Ten list, noting those titles found to be most distinguished:
- The Judgment of Yoyo Gold by Isaac Blum
- Plain Jane and the Mermaid by Vera Brosgol
- Bright Red Fruit by Safia Elhillo
- Ida B. Wells Marches for the Vote by Dinah Johnson, illustrated by Jerry Jordan
- The Beautiful Game by Yamile Saied Méndez
- Find Her by Ginger Reno
- The Race to Be Myself: Young Readers Edition by Caster Semenya
- The Unboxing of a Black Girl by Angela Shanté
- Black Girl You Are Atlas by Renée Watson, illustrated by Ekua Holmes
- Diary of a Confused Feminist by Kate Weston
Our display highlights some notable facts from women’s history with QR codes available for those who would like to read further. Patrons can also find printed copies of the 2025 Rise list, making it easy to request titles that might not currently be on display. Featuring a broad mix of historical fiction, biographies, YA non-fiction, graphic novels, fantasy, memoir, realistic fiction, and more, there is something in the list for every age and every interest. The population of adults who read YA titles continues to grow, so whether you are looking for something for yourself or a younger member of the family, come check out our display and be inspired.
