Fitchburg State University and the Fitchburg Historical Society are collaborating to recognize Banned Books Week in October with “Censoring Cormier: Readings from the Fitchburg State University Archives.”
The reading of archival materials is related to the censorship of local author Robert Cormier's work. Cormier’s novel The Chocolate War, was one of the most censored novels at the time of its publication as part of the first wave of book challenges and bans in the United States.
“Cormier’s works began to be challenged and removed from schools and libraries over 40 years ago,” said Fitchburg State Associate Librarian for Instruction and Community Engagement Olivia Rossetti. “Our goal with this event is to reflect on the evolution of censorship as Cormier experienced it, and consider how the issue has or has not evolved since then.”
These hour-long events will feature a 30-minute reading, followed by a discussion.
The first event will begin at 5:15 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7 at the Fitchburg Historical Society, 781 Main St. Fitchburg State University hosts the second event at the Amelia V. Gallucci-Cirio Library at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9.
“Banned Books Week is such an important event, and we’re excited to partner with Fitchburg Historical Society to expand the reach of this work,” Rossetti said. “We hope to see lots of faces, both from our university community and the community at large at our events this October.”
The events are both free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served.
Free parking is available in the parking lot behind the Historical Society building (accessed via Central St.), or free on-street parking on Main St. Designated visitor lots for Fitchburg State may be located on the university website at fitchburgstate.edu/about/maps-and-directions.