Library, Bookstore, Merchants Join for "Banned Books Week"

BISBEE, AZ - The Copper Queen Library and Atalanta’s Music & Books, in partnership with Old Bisbee Merchants, will highlight the observance of “Banned Books Week” and the freedom to read with a “Banned Books Scavenger Hunt” to be held September 29 – October 5 on Main Street.

Books that have been challenged will be placed in participating stores, and customers will begin the Scavenger Hunt by picking up a list of Banned Books and Participating Stores from the Library or from Atalanta's starting at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 29. The Hunt will end on October 5 at 5:00 p.m.

The names of all participants who find all the books and return their lists to the Library or to Atalanta’s by the deadline will be entered in a prize drawing. At noon on October 6 at the Library, prize winners’ names will be drawn, and winners will be asked to read excerpts from their favorite Banned Book.

First observed in 1982 during the last week of September, “Banned Books Week” reminds Americans not to take the precious democratic freedom to read for granted. Many libraries and bookstores across the nation join 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.

Each year, the American Library Association's 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). They estimate that this 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, which drew complaints from parents and others who believe the books “promote witchcraft” to children.

For further information, contact the library at 432-4232.