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On Monday, September 26 through Friday, September 30, 2005 the University Libraries will celebrate Banned Books Week, as designated by the American Library Association (ALA), with readings from books which have been banned or challenged as documented by ALA. Much more information about Banned Books Week, plus the list of 100 banned and challenged books, are available at the American Library Association Web site (search using "banned books week ala").
Among the Top Ten Challenged Authors from 1990-2004 are Alvin Schwartz (Scary Stories), Judy Blume (Forever), Robert Cormier (The Chocolate War), J. K. Rowling (the Harry Potter series), Maya Angelou (I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings), Toni Morrison (Beloved), and Alice Walker (The Color Purple). And, Yes, John Steinbeck (Of Mice and Men) and J. D. Salinger (Catcher in the Rye) are still on the list!
University faculty, staff, students, and others will be reading from banned books on Monday, September 26 through Friday, September 30 at 11:30, 12 noon, 12:30, 1:00, and 1:30
in the Rotunda of the Ned R. McWherter Library on The University of Memphis campus.
Please plan to hear these entertaining readings and interesting comments by our group of readers - and also affirm your belief in the freedom to read whatever you wish. And bring your questions and comments.
The public is invited to hear the readings and comments, which last some 30 minutes on the average. Parking is available a short walk away from the McWherter Library. The McWherter Library is located on the eastern edge of the University of Memphis campus and is visible from Zach Curlin Street, which runs south off of Central Avenue.
The University Libraries joins the American Library Association and its colleagues throughout the nation in the celebration of Banned Books Week because the freedom to read - one of the hallowed freedoms of expression - is at the heart of American democracy and citizenship.
Those who would enjoy doing a reading - usually some six to eight paragraphs from the banned book, plus a period for responding to questions and comments from the audience - should contact Mr. Tom Mendina, University Libraries at 901-678-4310 or at tmendina@memphis.edu. Contact Mr. Mendina for further information about Banned Books Week, also.
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