Celebrating the Freedom to Read |
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Andrew Halford |
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Donna Groves |
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Tim Perdue |
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Marie Liang |
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More than 75 people attended a panel discussion on censorship in the Matheson Library at West Kentucky Community & Technical College October 4.
The event was part of the college’s recognition of Banned
Books Week, September 29 – October 6.
Banned Books Week - "Celebrating the Freedom to Read" is observed during the last week of September each year.
Observed since 1982, the annual event reminds Americans not to take this precious democratic freedom for granted. Banned Books Week is sponsored by the American Booksellers Association, the American Booksellers Foundation for Free Expression, the American Library Association (ALA), the Association of American Publishers, the American Society of Journalists and Authors and the National Association of College Stores.
Many bookstores and libraries across the nation joined in the celebration with displays and readings of books that have been banned or threatened throughout history. These include works ranging from the Bible to John Steinbeck's "Of Mice and Men."
WKCTC’s panel discussion was moderated by
history professor and associate press writer Berry Craig. Panel
members were WKCTC History Lecturer Tim Perdue, WKYX/WKYQ
News Director Donna Groves, English Professor Andrew Halford,
and McCracken County Public Library Director Marie Liang.
Each year, the American Library Association's (ALA) Office for Intellectual Freedom receives hundreds of reports on books and other materials that were "challenged" (their removal from school or library shelves was requested). The ALA estimates the number represents only about a quarter of the actual challenges. "Most Challenged" titles include the popular "Harry Potter" series of fantasy books for children by J.K. Rowling. The series drew complaints from parents and others who believe the books promote witchcraft to children.
The challenges reported reflect a continuing concern with a wide variety of themes. Other "Most Challenged" titles include "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" by Mark Twain, for its use of language, particularly references to race; "It's Perfectly Normal," a sex education book by Robie Harris, for being too explicit, especially for children; and "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" by Maya Angelou, for the description of rape she suffered as a child.
WKCTC is focusing on reading as part of its Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP). The College is committed to enhancing the culture of reading on the campus and the panel even is one of the programs designed to encourage the college community to take advantage of their freedom to read.
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