Ira Wells: On Book Banning
Critic, author and associate professor Ira Wells discusses his new book On Book Banning. In conversation with author Charles Foran.
Date and time
Location
Jack Rabinovitch Reading Room - Toronto Reference Library
789 Yonge Street Toronto, ON M4W 2G8 CanadaAbout this event
- Event lasts 1 hour
As part of Freedom to Read Week, Toronto Public Library presents critic, essayist, and associate professor at the University of Toronto, Ira Wells to celebrate the publication of his new title On Book Banning: Or, How the New Censorship Consensus Trivializes Art and Undermines Democracy.
The culture wars have found fertile ground within public schools and libraries. We’re witnessing a notable increase in book challenges and attempts to remove titles from bookshelves across North America and, as we know, this is nothing new.
In On Book Banning, Ira Wells argues that conservatives and progressives alike are teaching our children that the solution to opposing viewpoints is outright censorship. How might we collectively push back and help reinforce our personal freedom to read? And how do we ensure that our democratic spaces continue to be welcoming spaces for all viewpoints? Ira Wells will discuss these questions and more with host Charles Foran.
Question and answer session and book signing to follow. Books available for purchase.
Ticket registration for this event is required.
About this Event's Guests:
Read more:
Norman Jewison: A Director's Life
Fighting words: Polemics and Social Change in Literary Naturalism
Just Once, No More: On Fathers, Sons, and Who We Are Until We Are No Longer
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This event is part of our On Civil Society series, where we host local and international authors, activists and academics in conversation about the most critical topics of our time. Generously supported in part by Chris M. Reid.
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Freedom to Read Week is an annual event that encourages Canadians to think about and reaffirm their commitment to intellectual freedom.
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Note: This is an in-person event at the Jack Rabinovitch Reading Room, located on the fourth floor of the Toronto Reference Library (789 Yonge Street).
Arrive early, meet people. The talk starts at 7 pm, but doors open at 6 pm. Come early so you can chat with your fellow literature lovers, and make new friends.
Reminder! We oversell these events to make sure that the most people have an opportunity to attend. Tickets are only guaranteed until 10 minutes before the show starts, at which point we will start opening up available spots to the rush line.
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Accessibility at Toronto Public Library:
Toronto Public Library is committed to accessibility. Please call or email us if you are Deaf or have a disability and would like to request accommodation to participate in this program. Please let us know as far in advance as possible and we will do our best to meet your request. At least three weeks’ notice is preferred. Phone 416-393-7099 or email accessibleservices@tpl.ca.