Banned Books Week 2010, September 25-October 2
RSSDodie Ownes
Banned Books Week has a long list of impressive sponsors, including the American Booksellers Association, the American Booksellers Foundation for Free Expression, the American Library Association, the American Society of Journalists and Authors, the Association of American Publishers, and the National Association of College Stores. The event is even endorsed by the Center for the Book in the Library of Congress. But that won't mean much if libraries don't educate their customers about the importance of free and open access to information. Take advantage of the American Library Association's many resources aimed at raising teens' awareness of the danger of censorship–and don't forget to create your own banned-books display. It's sure to get the conversation started in your library. "Think for Yourself and Let Others Do the Same" is the slogan for this year's campaign, which speaks clearly on the importance of defending First Amendment rights. This year's poster is a real knock-out, too. "[P]rofanity, personal attacks, or any other inappropriate material will be removed from the site."
Aren't these the kinds of reasons used to justify not having certain books in certain libraries?
I certainly appreciate the civility of a moderated site, but I also appreciate the desire to not have some materials in an elementary or middle school (or even high school, though I haven't worked there) library. There are people who will always have the "banned!" stamp in hand, but it's up to readers of all ages to know what is happening and why. * = Required information
Reader Comments (2)
Posted by David Carter on September 2, 2010 03:29:24PM
Posted by kadee_bee on September 12, 2010 09:43:29PM
