Banned Book Week Virtual Read-Out at the SPL!

 In observation of Banned Books Week, the Swansea Public Library will be participating in the 3rd Annual Virtual Read-Out.  Banned Books Week extends from September 22-28. The library asks its patrons and anyone interested to come and read a passage from their favorite banned or frequently challenged book during Banned Books Week. Any book on the banned or challenged lists may be chosen. The library has lists of banned books available at the library as well as on its Facebook page. Participants may also choose to discuss their favorite banned book and comment on how they would feel if prevented from reading it. Each person has up to 3 minutes to do their reading. These will be recorded and posted onto the Swansea Public Library YouTube page, then sent to the official Virtual Read-Out YouTube page. Recordings can be done throughout Banned Books Week, every day except Sunday and Tuesday during the afternoons and evenings. Contact library assistant Kaija Gallucci at 508-674-9609 to schedule available timeslots. If participants need to schedule before Banned Books Week, special accommodations can be made. Each person will be required to sign a release form and minors will need a parent to sign this form for them.

Banned Books week originated in 1982, after a slew of bannings from schools and libraries. Many books that have been banned or challenged are classic literature and children’s books. Libraries across the country observe this week to take a look at censorship and its rationalizations. There are many different opinions and viewpoints each book has to offer. These challenged materials should be available to those who want to read them.

For more information contact the Swansea Public Library at 508-674-9609 or visit us at www.swansealibrary.org or check out our Facebook page.