(JOHNSTOWN, PA.) – The Cambria County Library is a 2020 recipient of a Banned Books Weeks Grant from the Freedom to Read Foundation (FTRF). This grant is offered through the Judith F. Krug Memorial Fund, honoring the FTRF founder who worked to prevent censorship and protect First Amendment rights.

The library will be using these funds to host a series of Banned Books Week programs and activities that will center on the history of the Beat Generation and banned books. This year will mark the 65th anniversary of the Six Gallery reading in San Francisco, where probably the most infamous banned book was read for the first time, Howl by Allen Ginsberg. The celebration of this milestone includes a history presentation featuring a vast collection of 50s and 60s memorabilia, a banned book reading from the small, independent Chameleon Bookstore in Johnstown, a month-long reading challenge through Beanstack, and a virtual presentation by Jami Cassady, daughter of cultural and literary icon Neal Cassady.

Full details on all of the Cambria County Library’s Banned Books Week events can be found on their website, cclsys.org/cambria.

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submitted by:
Patty Heilmann,
Marketing & Outreach Coordinator,
Cambria County Library
Johnstown, PA • 15901