A Few Timely Reminders

Banned Books Week is only a week away, and, given the national First Amendment implications of the USA Patriot Act, this year the event is more important than ever.

Banned Books Week, held this year from September 25 - October 2, is sponsored by ABA, the American Booksellers Foundation for Free Expression (ABFFE), the American Library Association (ALA), the Association of American Publishers, the American Society of Journalists and authors, and the National Association of College Stores. Banned Books Week is also endorsed by the Center for the Book of the Library of Congress.

Banned Books Week Kits are still available -- but only if you order today. For the kits to arrive by September 24, they must be ordered from ALA by calling (800) 545-2433, ext. 4220. The kits cost $55.

There is an important Book Sense-related component to Banned Books Week this year, the first-ever Book Sense Top Ten Banned Books. The list of titles, as selected by independent booksellers, can become the centerpiece for Banned Books in-store displays. Pads were sent to stores with Book Sense in the August Red Box. To download a copy of the flier, click here.

Looking ahead, there are two important nomination deadlines for Book Sense Picks:

Winter Children's Book Sense Picks -- September 24

December Book Sense Picks -- October 8

All thanks in advance, and many thanks for all you are doing for Book Sense.