Words with borders

Abstract

This study aims at investigating the phenomenon of censoring and withholding translated books in Jordan. The source of data is a list of all banned translated books at Yarmouk University Library in Jordan (n = 60). The list was first analyzed and classified thematically. Qualitative data were obtained via semi-structured interviews with the librarians. When available, reference was made to the paratextual material of the withheld translated books. Moreover, the official website of the Jordan Media Commission was consulted to identify the factors that may contribute to censoring and blocking translated works in Jordan. The results show that librarians ban books for various religious, moral, social, political, and ideological reasons. Furthermore, it was revealed that censorship in Jordan is subjectively conducted and does not follow clear-cut rules and regulations. Finally, using paratextual elements in investigating the motives for censoring books proved to be an effective method.