It’s ‘Banned Books Week’ around the country. In Memphis, it’s ‘Freedom to Read Week’
Early Monday, Oct. 6, banned book displays at the Benjamin L. Hooks Library were quickly dismantled. (Bill Dries/The Daily Memphian file)
Memphis Public Libraries, in an attempt to navigate the current political waters, scrubbed its yearslong observation of Banned Books Week, and instead proclaimed Oct. 5-11 Freedom to Read Week.
Early Monday, Oct. 6, banned book displays at the Benjamin L. Hooks Library were quickly dismantled; the displays have remained empty. Other branches around the city followed like a cascade of dominoes.
As of Thursday, Oct. 9, library employees have been directed to get pre-approval for book displays and all library signs.
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Memphis Public Libraries Banned Book Week Stephanie Rodda Christine Weinreich Freedom to Read Subscriber OnlyAre you enjoying your subscription?
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Jane Roberts
Jane Roberts has reported in Memphis for more than 20 years. As a senior member of The Daily Memphian staff, she was assigned to the medical beat during the COVID-19 pandemic. She also has done in-depth work on other medical issues facing our community, including shortages of specialists in local hospitals. She covered K-12 education here for years and later the region’s transportation sector, including Memphis International Airport and FedEx Corp.
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