American Library Association Quran Read Out grabs the attention of local media

CHICAGO –   On Sept. 11, 2010, the American Library Association (ALA) and guests from Chicago Islamic organizations participated in a Quran Read Out. The reading event was in response to a Florida pastor’s threat to burn the Quran on the ninth anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.  More than 50 people listened intently as ALA leaders and guests read select verses from the Quran outside of ALA headquarters.  The purpose of the event was to send a clear message to those who would use book burning as a means to spread fear.  

“Using the threat of the destruction of books to wage a war on ideas some may disagree with is offensive to the American Library Association,” said ALA Office for Intellectual Freedom Director Barbara Jones.  “Book burning is the most insidious form of censorship, and such an action or threat should not be taken lightly.  Today it might be the Quran; tomorrow it might be the Bible, or your favorite book.”

The Quran Read Out received coverage from Chicago print, newswire, television and radio organizations.  Local coverage mushroomed to national and international coverage. More than 2,600 websites posted Associated Press coverage, while such social media vehicles such as Facebook and Twitter provided links to achieved coverage.  Event coverage garnered more than 36 million in circulation figures. Also television coverage reached more than 3.5 million households.

The following is a list of local coverage achieved:

Print

• Associated Press (More than 2,600 posts)
  "Library Group Holds Reading Of Quran In Chicago"
  
• Chicago Tribune
  “Library group hosts Quran reading”
  

Radio

• WGN Radio
• WBBM Radio

Television

• WGN –TV
  
• WLS- TV Ch. 7 (ABC)
  
• WBBM – TV Ch. 2 (CBS)
• WMAQ – TV Ch. 5 (NBC)
• WFLD – TV Ch. 32 (FOX)

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