Free Event at The Learning Center Highlights the Power of Stories and the Freedom to Read
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Susan Hancock Maureen Bergmueller
Abshire Public Relations Senior Citizens Inc.
912.844.9549 912-236-0363(w) 323-877-1617 (cell)
pr@abshirepr.com mbergmueller@seniorcitizens-inc.org
Savannah, GA — [February 4, 2026] — As book bans and challenges continue to make national headlines, The Learning Center at Senior Citizens Inc. hosts its third annual “Who’s Reading Banned Books…And Why” event on Tuesday, February 10, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at 3025 Bull Street. The event is free and open to the public.
This widely popular annual program brings together respected local leaders and cultural voices to share the banned books that have shaped their lives. The participants will briefly discuss why they selected a particular banned or challenged book, followed by a short reading from that work.
“Books have been banned for centuries, but the recent rise in efforts to remove books from libraries and school curricula makes conversations like this more important than ever,” said Roger Smith, Director of The Learning Center. “This program creates space for reflection, dialogue, and a shared appreciation for the power of stories.”
Confirmed readers for the evening include:
- Guillermo Arboleda, Missioner, Episcopal Diocese of Georgia’s Racial Justice Mission
- Bruce Cohen, Epidemiologist (retired)
- Lola DeWitt, Director, Live Oak Public Libraries
- Teresa-Michelle Jackson, Director, Savannah Black Heritage Festival
- Rexanna Lester, Executive Editor, Savannah Morning News (retired)
- Roger Smith, Director, The Learning Center at Senior Citizens Inc.
- Melissa Swindell, Director, Georgia Writers Museum
- Andreia Wardlaw, Director, SCAD’s Walter and Linda Evans Center for African American Studies
The program is presented in partnership with the Savannah -Yamacraw Branch of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH).
“This event reflects our shared commitment to education, history, and open dialogue,” said Patti Lyons, President of Senior Citizens Inc.. “Banned books often challenge us to think more deeply about our world—and ensuring access to those voices is essential to a healthy, informed community.”
Now in its third year, the Banned Books Reading has become one of The Learning Center’s most anticipated programs, drawing a diverse audience eager to engage with literature, history, and current issues through a local lens.
Event Details
Who’s Reading Banned Books…And Why?
Tuesday, February 10
6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
The Learning Center, 3025 Bull Street (entrance on Jasper Street)
Free and open to the public
To register, go to: www.SeniorCitizensInc.org/tlc or call 912-236-0363.
ABOUT SCI
Senior Citizens Inc. (SCI) has been helping people in coastal Georgia age successfully since 1959 through a variety of programs including Meals on Wheels, Adult Day Health Centers, DayBreak Respite Care, The Learning Center, and much more. To learn more about SCI and its services, please visit www.SeniorCitizensInc.org or call 912-236-0363.
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