Every year books are banned and challenged in schools, libraries, and bookstores across the country and around the globe. Most of these bans and challenges go unreported. Like many other libraries, we participate in Banned Books Week to celebrate the freedom to read and to raise awareness of censorship.This year we decided to celebrate in some new and unusual ways!
On Friday, September 19th we co-hosted a Deep Fried Banned Books event with Art + Activism. It’s an unconventional approach to raising awareness about banned books developed by Columbia Alumnus Drew Matott (MFA ’08).
Participants selected books to butter, batter, and top with cereal. Books were then deep fried in hot oil and vacuum sealed. See all the delicious images on Art + Activism’s Facebook Page.
Beginning on Monday, September 22nd and continuing through Friday, September 26th we are holding Banned Books Read-Outs in front of the Library at 624 S. Michigan Avenue. Not only are we reading selections from banned books, but inviting passersby to ask questions and raise awareness.
Learn more about Banned Books Week from ALA or check out our Pinterest board featuring banned books and other resources:
