Oregon ♥s Banned Books!

Ah, September: Banned Book Month returns!

In previous years I've been able to do a better job of celebrating banned books.

This year I'm going to have to cut a few corners and make do with passing along, courtesy of the Oregon ACLU, some of the activities going on in the state this month to protect our right to read.

If you can make it to Portland on the 29th, don't miss the Uncensored Celebration!

And there are readings going on all over the state:

Eugene Banned Books Read-Out
Eugene Public Library
100 W 10th Avenue, Eugene
Saturday, September 25, noon - 2 p.m.
Co-hosted by Eugene Public Library and the Lane County Chapter of the ACLU of Oregon.


Ashland Banned Books Read-Out
Jackson County Library Services Ashland Branch
410 Siskyou Boulevard, Ashland
Saturday, September 25, 1 - 3 p.m.
Co-hosted by Jackson County Library Services Ashland Branch and the Southern Oregon Chapter of the ACLU of Oregon.


Springfield Banned Books Read-Out
Springfield Public Library
225 5th Street, Springfield
Saturday, September 25, 2 - 4 p.m.
Co-hosted by Springfield Public Library and the Lane County Chapter of the ACLU of Oregon.


Newport Banned Books Panel
Newport Public Library
35 NW Nye Street, Newport
Wednesday, September 29, 7 p.m.

For the sixth year in a row, the Newport Library has invited six speakers to read selections from books that have been challenged or banned. This year the speakers are:

* Ted Smith, Director of the Newport Public Library
* Niki Price, writer and editor of Oregon Coast Today
* Catherine Rickbone, Executive Director of Oregon Coast Council for the Arts
* Joaquin Varo, Certified Medical Assistant-Medical Translator with Centro de Ayuda
* Sharon Beardsley, English instructor at Oregon Coast Community College
* Carla Perry, Author, publisher, and founder of the Nye Beach Writer's Series and Writers' on the Edge

And here's the list of libraries where you can pick up a fabulous, free I Read Banned Books button! [PDF format]

While you're picking up your button, remember to thank your librarians (but keep your voice down). Even if you aren't in the mood to read a banned book today, you could if you wanted, and they're the reason.