Borders and Waldenbooks may not be carrying the latest “dreaded cartoons of blasphemy” edition of Free Inquiry magazine featuring the Danish Motoons, but readers in Portland Oregon will be able to find it at Powell’s Books: Borders bans controversial magazine. (Hat tip: Trumanite.)

And according to this report, “some outlets” of Barnes & Noble.

Several competing companies said they would stock the current issue and questioned the free-speech implications of Borders’ decision. Borders defended its decision, citing safety concerns.

Powell’s Books plans to carry the magazine in its West Burnside Street store as usual. Rich’s Cigar Store downtown and some outlets of the national chain Barnes & Noble also plan to stock it.

“I never like giving any offense, but the truth is that many of the books I stock have material that will offend somebody with something,” said Powell’s owner Michael Powell, who said he disagrees with Borders’ decision.

Powell wasn’t familiar with Free Inquiry before he heard about the rumblings over Borders’ decision, but, he said, as a strong free-speech advocate he rarely decides against stocking publications to avoid controversy.

“We regret that, but I’m not going to stop because of that,” he said. “In fact, I think it’s often that type of book or printed material that is most catalytic in sparking discussion.”