14 July 2011

If We Can't Have Library, No One Will; Library Advocates Propose Book Burning

Burning BooksThe local library support group SAFE in Troy, MI has turned the dial to 11 as an announcement was made that if their local library closes they plan on a book burning to celebrate.  

SAFE, Safeguarding American Families, are supporting the proposal of a Michigan tax law that could save local libraries.  The group's signs say that if the proposal fails on August 2, they will start burning books on August 5 when the library closes.  One can only assume that the group misunderstands what the term "safeguarding" means if they go ahead with plans to light a huge bonfire of literature and cookbooks in their neighborhood.  I can only hope the bonfire does not include human sacrifice, wicker man style.  Bonus points if next month I get to write the headline, "Troy Burns When Library Closes" or if they actually start the fire with a copy of the Illiad.

Also "Safeguarding American Families."  Where's the "E" come in?

[Library Journal]