September 23, 2010

Event, display to mark Banned Books Week

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- Morris Library at Southern Illinois University Carbondale will mark the annual observance of Banned Books Week with a special event and display.

In conjunction with the American Library Association’s 29th celebration of the freedom to read, there will be a banned books reading and the opening of a special display on Sept. 30. The public book reading will be at 5:30 p.m. at the Longbranch Coffeehouse in Carbondale.

The reading will include selections from books banned for one reason or another at some place and time in history. The books are an eclectic mix including everything from Galileo’s “Starry Messenger” to J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” series. Those attending will enjoy free refreshments.

“The Battle of the Books: Censorship and Culture Wars” will also open that day in the Morris Library Hall of Presidents and Chancellors. The exhibit will feature many of the books banned, burned or censored throughout the ages. Visitors will find children’s books, religious materials, scientific works, books featuring gay or lesbian characters and much more.

The public may view the exhibit from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 4 p.m. Saturday until sometime in December.

For more information about the Morris Library activities, contact Melissa Hubbard, assistant professor and rare book librarian for Morris Library, via e-mail at mhubbard@lib.siu.edu or by calling 618/453-3269.

Find out more about banned books and Banned Books Week Sept. 25-Oct. 2 by looking online at www.bannedbooksweek.org.