Now You Know

The American Library Association has set aside Saturday to Oct. 6 as “Banned Books Week.”

This is a time to celebrate our freedom to read freely, said Cindy Tews, Ramstein Library director.

Over the years, a number of books have been challenged for content − books like, The Bible, In the Night Kitchen, Of Mice and Men, To Kill a Mockingbird, as well as one or two of the Harry Potter books.

Vogelweh Library has a number of the most challenged books on display. Helen Lehman, Vogelweh Library director, said the books have already got people talking, and reading. Ramstein and Sembach libraries will also display books that have been challenged. All Ramstein customers who check out a “banned” or “challenged” book during that week will be eligible for prizes.

“This is my favorite week because when people view the displays and talk with us, it is very apparent that they’re learning something,” Ms. Tews said. “Most have no idea that ‘banning’ books is still so popular in the good, free, U.S.A.”

To kick off Banned Books Week, Ramstein Library will host LATENIGHT @ THE LIBRARY, for adults only. The library is open 6 p.m. Saturday to 2 a.m. Sunday and the evening includes Internet use, reading, food and more.

Find out more about banned and challenged books at the American Library Association Web site at www.ala.org.

Parents corner

U.S. Air Forces in Europe Library Director Melinda Mosley encourages parents to help their children choose age-appropriate books.

Parents, check out these resources: Raising a Reader: A Mother’s Tale of Desperation and Delight, Best Books for Children, Book Crush: for kids and teens.

“It’s even appropriate to read a book along side your child,” Ms. Mosely said. “Even when a child is reading on his or her own. It’s a great activity for parents to read with their children.”

 – Monica Mendoza