Created by artist Kelly McCray, The Tower of Banned Books is an art installation built from hundreds of challenged and banned books, symbolizing the ongoing fight for intellectual freedom.
The Tower of Banned Books, created by artist Kelly McCray, is on display until March 10 at the Waterdown Branch.
The Tower of Banned Books installation illustrates the weight of censorship throughout history while highlighting the ongoing struggle of books facing challenges in libraries, schools and bookstores, including works by contemporary children’s and young adult authors. The sculptural installation comprises 500-600 used books. The top of the tower is crowned with a chaotic assemblage of open books that are heavily redacted with red reflective tape. The banned book tower was first introduced to the public in 2023.
The Waterdown Branch was established in 1966 and moved to the Mill Street North location in 1979. In December 2015, the Branch moved to its new location, 163 Dundas St. E.
The Branch offers several improved service features including: accessibility, more public-access computers and dedicated study spaces. The Branch now has a bigger collection and a redesigned children's area, which houses kid-friendly technology and activities. With the new layout and larger space, more programs will be offered in the Branch and when the weather is agreeable, a reading patio overlooking Dundas Street and the Escarpment will be opened.
