Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed a ban on book bans into law last June to protect libraries’ freedom in choosing their own materials. But, some advocates of literary freedom have since raised concerns about possible unintended consequences surrounding the First Amendment and librarian safety. The law, House Bill 2789, officially went into effect on Jan..
Even when the content was “harsh,” Evanston resident Heather Jean said she always encouraged her two children to explore all types of literature when they were growing up. Much of that literature came from the Evanston Public Library, which became a helpful resource when Jean’s daughter came out as queer. “If she didn’t want to.
Evanston Public Library’s main location on Orrington Avenue will be closed through Friday due to a sewer line collapse. The building closed during business hours Wednesday, according to an EPL news release. Cleaning is now underway as the necessary repairs are assessed. Residents should expect some Church Street sidewalk and single-lane street closures through Friday,.