Atticus Bookstore and Cafe (near Yale University) has caused a stir with a policy requiring employees to speak English only in public areas. “Spanish is allowed in the prep area, the dishwasher area and the lower level. Let’s make our customers feel welcome and comfortable,” a copy of the policy says.
In a statement owner Charles Negaro said: “We encourage the use of English because it’s an appropriate way to be most helpful to our customers. To continue to provide the best service possible, we try to help those employees who speak English as a second language by helping them improve their use of English.”
He claimed news reports had been inaccurate and added, “Atticus managers and staff are reviewing our policy of appropriate language usage to determine how we can avoid misinterpretations of this kind in the future.” The AP says the EEOC’s policy is that “employers are allowed to enact an English-only policy if it is needed to promote the safe or efficient operation of their business.”
AP
Following internet protests over reports of the destruction of some books, Borders announced that they have partnered with Gifts In Kind International, which distributes corporate product donations to qualified nonprofits, “to help donate items that have not sold in Borders and Waldenbooks stores nationwide and cannot be returned to our suppliers.”
Release
Amazon’s blog celebrates the YA Decade by highlighting eight authors who “have shaped the world and language of YA”:
MT Anderson
Laurie Halse Anderson
Meg Cabot
Cecily Von Ziegesar
Christopher Paolini
Scott Westerfeld
Stephenie Meyer
John Green