In other words: A discussion of The Bush Administration
A library card is a dangerous thing
From a letter writer in today's NYT.
To the Editor:
Re "Security With Liberty," by William Safire (column, May 17):
Every visit to the Orange County Library reminds me why I hate the Patriot Act and how my right of privacy can be officially violated.
A big sign in black and white is posted at the book checkout desk reminding me that the Federal Bureau of Investigation can get a list of every book I've read and doesn't have to tell me that it asked for my list.
A secret investigation.
This "police state" license of the Patriot Act could affect me, to the extent that my choice of reading material is adversely interpreted by law enforcement.
No, I do not feel more secure; I feel threatened, and more than a little terrorized whenever I see that sign at my library.
This is from a woman who tells her grandchildren, "My library card is my most valuable possession."
ARLENE ROSSO-BARON
Orlando, Fla., May 17, 2004
If after reading this you're telling yourself, "So what? I don't care if the government knows I'm reading, I didn't do anything wrong," just go on telling that to yourself, especially when that knock comes at your door in the middle of the night. "Yeah right," you're saying, "not in my country." Really? Would you be willing to stake your life on it? It doesn't matter, because the Patriot Act has already staked your life on it for you.
- Michael 10:23 AM - [PermaLink] -
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