Whistler Public Library Marks 40 Years with Freedom to Read Week
The Whistler Public Library is marking its 40th anniversary by reaffirming its dedication to intellectual freedom. Celebrated during the last week of February, Freedom to Read Week was established by the Canadian Library Association in 1984 to draw attention to books that have faced challenges or bans. This right is safeguarded by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, enacted in 1982. Prominent titles that have been banned include "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee and "The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood. In the 1990s, staff members covered books that faced challenges to generate interest. The library has encountered issues with titles like Michael Slade's "Headhunter" and Maurice Sendak's "Where the Wild Things Are." The upcoming Freedom to Read Week is scheduled for February 21–27, 2027.
Key facts
- Whistler Public Library celebrates its 40th anniversary.
- Freedom to Read Week is recognized annually during the last week of February.
- Freedom to Read Week was established in 1984 by the Canadian Library Association.
- The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms guarantees intellectual freedom and was signed in 1982.
- Books banned in Canadian libraries include 'To Kill a Mockingbird', 'The Handmaid's Tale', and 'Lord of the Flies'.
- In the 1990s, Whistler Public Library covered challenged books in paper bags.
- The first challenged book at Whistler Public Library was 'Headhunter' by Michael Slade.
- The library has never formally removed any books from its shelves.
- Next Freedom to Read Week is February 21–27, 2027.
Entities
Artists
- Anna Donaldson
- Joan Richoz
- Harper Lee
- Margaret Atwood
- William Golding
- Michael Slade
- Maurice Sendak
Institutions
- Whistler Public Library
- Whistler Museum
- Canadian Library Association
Locations
- Whistler
- Canada