Dua Lipa Is Fighting Book Bans with a New ‘Manifesto Library’ She Calls a ‘Shrine’ to Banned Books

**Dua Lipa Launches Manifesto Library Amid Literary Festival in Porto**

In an initiative that merges literature with activism, pop sensation Dua Lipa has unveiled the Manifesto Library in the iconic Livraria Lello Bookshop in Porto, Portugal. This groundbreaking space, which debuted on June 27, is a collaborative effort between Lipa’s Service95 book club and the renowned bookstore, marking a significant milestone in her commitment to literature and the freedom of expression.

The Manifesto Library is designed as a sanctuary for contemporary works that challenge authority and provoke critical thought. In a social media post announcing the library’s opening, Lipa described it as “a shrine to books that have disappeared” and “to authors whose courage unmasks structures of power and control.” The project aims to empower readers and to stand against censorship, encouraging individuals to explore their right to access diverse narratives.

Situated within the historic Livraria Lello, which is known for its stunning architecture and literary significance, the Manifesto Library adds a new dimension to the venue. Lipa’s library will feature a curated collection of 100 contemporary books, including many that have faced bans or censorship, particularly those that address themes of race, sexuality, and identity. This initiative aligns with the broader objectives of the BABELL – City of Books literary festival, during which the library was inaugurated.

Reflecting on her motivations for establishing the Service95 book club, Lipa noted that her aim was to create a space where writers and readers can connect regardless of their circumstances. She emphasised the importance of literature in fostering understanding and dialogue, stating, “Reading the world brings us closer — but sadly, not everyone is in favour of that.”

Each book within the Manifesto Library has been selected to provoke questions and reflection. Many have been subjected to scrutiny or censorship, highlighting the ongoing issues surrounding freedom of expression in literature. Lipa pointed out that the restrictions placed on certain books limit not only the access of readers to diverse viewpoints but also their capability to imagine and understand the complexities of the world around them.

The collection showcases works that resonate with advocacy for LGBTQIA+ rights, free speech, and social justice. Lipa’s commitment to these topics is evident in her selection of books that have been restricted from educational environments or faced backlash due to their content. She underscored that the authors of these works often have faced severe repercussions, including threats to their lives, for voicing their truths.

Lipa invited the community and visitors alike to engage with the library and to personally select books that resonate with them. She stated, “You are invited to visit and decide for yourself what belongs on these shelves. Because sometimes the most subversive thing you can do is read a book and then talk about it.” This call to action reflects her belief in the transformative power of literature and the importance of open discourse.

The Manifesto Library not only celebrates the written word but also stands as a testament to the resilience of authors and readers who defy limitations imposed upon them. By providing a physical space dedicated to these important and often contentious works, Lipa hopes to inspire a new generation of readers to engage with literature in a meaningful way.

As the Manifesto Library continues to gain attention, it signifies a growing movement towards safeguarding literary freedoms and honouring the voices of those who have bravely challenged societal norms. Lipa’s vision for the library exemplifies how art and activism can intersect, fostering a deeper understanding of the issues that permeate our lives today.