Freedom...to gather, to speak, to read...Banned Books

Infographic from geediting.com

September recognizes several anniversaries or 'celebrations' that we like here in libraryland.

In honor of Constitution Day, September 17, please take a moment to appreciate the 230th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution. Unite to celebrate what was then a phenomenal new type of government, and likely a great risk.

We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do
ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

Despite our problems and divisions, it has worked out pretty well. In the 230 years there have been 27 amendments; how many can you name? That averages one amendment every 8.5 years.

The Bill of Rights, Amendments 1-10, grant us many freedoms that the founding fathers thought warranted articulating. Amendment One makes clear that we have to right to speak and to publish without interference from the government. Most states, including Virginia, have laws that also make clear that we have the right to read what we wish and that what we read is a private matter. Your library borrowing record is private, protected information; nobody looks at it without a court order. (You're welcome.)

To celebrate our right to read as we please, libraries celebrate Banned Books Week September 22-28. You may be surprised to learn that many of your favorite books have been censored, if not banned, including the Bible. Follow the links and see how many banned books you've read. Also interesting is this blog about Forbidden Books from around the world.

September is also Library Card Sign-Up Month. Yes, libraries made this one up. Stop in to get a card or renew yours. We aren't just print books anymore. We are downloadable music, ebooks, emagazines, craft sessions, and games and trivia at neighborhood eateries...and real, live authors come October 12. Pop in, use the wifi, and say hello.


Posted by Kelly McBride Delph