APL Observes Banned Books Week

On Saturday, September 30 at 2:00 pm, in the auditorium of the main library, there will be an observance of Banned Books Week, which runs from September 23 through 30.
Observed since 1982, Banned Books Week reminds Americans not to take this precious democratic freedom for granted. Banned Books Week celebrates the freedom to choose or the freedom to express one’s opinion even if that opinion might be considered unorthodox or unpopular and stresses the importance of ensuring the availability of those unorthodox or unpopular viewpoints to all who wish to read them. After all, intellectual freedom can exist only where these two essential conditions are met. The American Library Association Code of Ethics states, "We uphold the principles of intellectual freedom and resist all efforts to censor library resources."

Albany Public Library and its partner, the New York Civil Liberties Union – Capital Region Chapter are presenting this special program to bring attention to attempts in our society to restrict the flow of information to legitimate users. Local actors and community leaders will read excerpts from books that have been banned or challenged in America.

Many local poets will be reading from their own works. NYCLU members will also discuss current challenges to intellectual freedom and free speech, including the USA PATRIOT Act.
** In addition, the Ramblin Jug Stompers, consisting of luminaries from the local music scene, will be performing censored or challenged songs from the past.*
* Banned Books Week is sponsored by the American Booksellers Association, the American Booksellers Foundation for Free Expression, the American Library Association (ALA), the American Society of Journalists and Authors and the Association of American Publishers. It is endorsed by the Center for the Book in the Library of Congress.

For more information on Banned Books week visit the ALA website.

For more information on the New York Civil Liberties Union visit here.

For more information on the PATRIOT Act visit the American Civil Liberties Union.