Blog posts by Muhammad

Books Not Bombs, Bridges Not Walls

MuhammadSenior Librarian, Languages and Literature

The First Amendment to the United States Constitution grants rights to freedom of speech, and is one of the greatest contributions that the United States’ Constitution can make to book lovers everywhere. Banned authors all over the world have looked at American ideals of freedom with awe and respect as they struggle for their rights to express their own thoughts even at the risk of their lives. Hence, American libraries and other progressive organizations have a great tradition of fighting censorship and book banning whenever it arises. Organizations such as American Library Association (ALA…

Night of Philosophy: Brooklynites Pull an All-Nighter at Central Library

MuhammadSenior Librarian, Languages and Literature

Thousands gather in the Central Library's Lobby for Kwame Anthony Appiah's keynote speech during the 2019 Night of Philosophy. (Photo Credit: Gregg Richards)
The Night of Philosophy and Ideas is a 12-hour, all-night marathon of philosophical debate, performances, screenings, and readings. On Saturday, February 2, 2019, the third annual event was held at Central Library. One of our own librarians, Nomi Naeem, held a lecture at 5:30am. Today he shares his thoughts on the international event that has now spread to nine other U.S. cities and what brings…