Banned Books Speakeasy Returns for Round Three

There’s something irresistible about a hidden door, a dimly lit room, and a story you’re not supposed to read. (Don’t worry, this one feels less like a bar and more like a secret society for readers.)

Last spring, we whispered a password to a “librarian” and slipped through a concealed entrance into one of the most memorable pop-ups in the DC area: the Banned Books Speakeasy at The Study at Morrison House. Inside, the vibe was all curiosity: shelves lined with controversial classics, cocktails inspired by rebellious narratives, and the thrill of participating in something both indulgent and… meaningful.

This year, it’s back, and bigger!

From Tuesday, April 21, through Saturday, April 25, The Study once again transforms into a dark academia dreamscape in partnership with the Virginia Library Association. Running nightly from 5:00 to 10:00pm, the Banned Books Speakeasy invites guests to celebrate the stories that have been challenged, restricted, and despite it all, endured.

If last year is any indication, you’ll want to arrive curious and stay awhile. The experience begins with a $2 timed entry ticket, with all proceeds going directly to support local libraries and librarians through the Virginia Library Association.

Inside, the magic unfolds in layers. A newly crafted cocktail and mocktail menu takes inspiration from some of the most iconic banned books in the U.S. Light bites from The Study’s menu round out the evening.

But really, the night’s fun is in the ordering process. Without spoiling too much, expect a “librarian,” a touch of secrecy, and a moment that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a narrative of your own. It’s the kind of place that sparks conversation (about anything really, but…) about books you loved, books you were never allowed to read, and the ones you’ll pick up next.

Last year, the event raised nearly $4,500, supporting initiatives like the Librarian of Color Forum Award, the LGBTQIA+ Forum Fund, and scholarships through the Virginia Library Association. A simple reminder that while the aesthetic is enchanting, the impact is real.