Monday, September 25, 2006

Read Banned Books!

Did you know that Aristotle, Darwin, Spinoza, Kant, D.H. Lawrence, Mark Twain, and even Jimmy Carter, are among authors of books that have been banned or burned? Find these and more at Hunter Library during Banned Books Week (September 24—30). We encourage all patrons to explore the challenges to intellectual freedom by reading and learning more about banned and challenged books.

As you enter our main floor, you will notice several displays on banned books and intellectual freedom immediately surrounding our Circulation Desk. There is also a book truck stocked with banned books from ancient, medieval, early modern and modern times. Feel free to check these out. Browse for titles in the booklet of banned books, which is available on the book truck.

For more information about Banned Books Week, visit the American Library Association’s Website. For reference questions about particular banned or challenged books, email us at Ask-a-Librarian.

Wednesday, September 20, 2006

Reminder to Students About Constitution Day Essay Contest

Hunter Library is again playing a central role in the University’s activities pertaining to the U.S. Constitution. As a co-sponsor of the Constitution Day Contest, we encourage all undergraduates to pen their thoughts on the 26th Amendment and its enduring effect on American life, thought, and culture. The prompt for the contest goes as follows:

“For most of America’s history, college students were not allowed to vote. In 1971, the 26th Amendment was adopted in recognition that 18-year-olds were old enough to fight wars, but not to vote in elections. A generation later, do you think young adults have fully realized their citizen role? What challenges face your age group today? By what means are you empowered to act, politically and civically, on behalf of your generation’s interests?”

Essays should not exceed 750 words, and should be submitted by 5pm, September 29, to ppi@wcu.edu. Cash prizes include $150 (1st), $100 (2nd), and $50 (3rd).

Winners are also eligible (though not required) to enter their essay for consideration for the December 2006 Commencement Address. The essay that wins 1st Prize will be published in the Western Carolinian.

For a listing of other Constitution Day/Week Activities, visit the University’s news page at http://www.wcu.edu/pubinfo/news/2006/ConstitutionDay.htm.