ROCK THE VOTE Cincinnati public library cancels event for fear of partisan perception

Some of the scheduled entertainers have expressed support for Democrats.
CINCINNATI (AP) -- The public library won't host a get-out-the-vote event because board members are worried the tax-supported library could be seen as involving itself in partisan politics.
Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County officials had been planning for two months to host a Rock the Vote event today at the downtown library. But the library withdrew as host after the board was told of it Tuesday, spokeswoman Amy Banister said.
"Our concern was that in participating in this event, people would perceive that the library was involved in a political activity," Banister said Friday.
Rock the Vote is registered as a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization aimed at young people.
"Shouldn't we educate young people on the issues that affect them?" said Carmen Hillman, the Ohio Rock the Vote coordinator.
Today's event -- a daylong series of workshops for various candidates and causes, followed by performances of rock and hip-hop bands -- has been moved to locations at the University of Cincinnati and a nightclub.
Entertainers
Board members who had viewed the organization's Web site said they saw entertainers on it and were concerned that because some entertainers have openly supported Democratic candidates, the public might perceive the library as taking a political position, Banister said.
The Rock the Vote Web site includes a statement by the Dixie Chicks, who were criticized after they said last year they were embarrassed that President Bush was from Texas. The Dixie Chicks -- plus Bruce Springsteen, Pearl Jam and others -- have planned fund-raising concerts in the weeks before the election in an effort to unseat Bush.