Impact

Taking a stand against banning books at Abington

Penn State Abington students read from books that have been challenged or banned from school and libraries throughout the nation. Credit: Jim Hopf / Penn State. Creative Commons

ABINGTON, Pa. -- Did you know that "Winnie the Pooh," "The Wizard of Oz," "Harry Potter" and many other beloved titles have been banned from libraries and schools throughout the country? Most people don't. The Penn State Abington community marked national Banned Books Week, Sept. 24-30, by staging readings from classic and contemporary works that have been challenged or banned.

Students, faculty and staff gathered in an outdoor classroom for the event, which reinforced Abington's commitment to freedom of speech and the importance of free thinking. 

"In this particular moment, freedom of expression, and taking a stand to emphasize and protect that freedom, is vital. Education is about exchanging new ideas, discussing topics that might make us uncomfortable, and being open to others' views. Banning books is education's antithesis. I'm proud to see students take this issue to heart," said Karen Weekes, associate professor, English and women's studies, Penn State Abington.

The event was sponsored by the Women's Studies and Elementary & Early Childhood Education programs, University Libraries, and The Abington Review.

Last Updated September 29, 2017