Office for Intellectual Freedom - Böcker

Equitable access to information for all, including underserved populations, is a core value of librarianship. The growing awareness of where this inequality persists has led many professionals to take steps to advance social justice within their institutions, from creating book displays about the Black Lives Matter movement or LGBT History Month to hosting programs by potentially controversial speakers. But while libraries are often well-versed in protecting the right to read books, many lack policies and experience in addressing censorship of resources and services. This resource from Pekoll, Assistant Director of the American Library Association’s Office for Intellectual Freedom (OIF), uses specific case studies to offer practical guidance on safeguarding intellectual freedom related to library displays, programming, and other librarian-created content. Essential for library directors, administrators, marketers, and programming staff, Beyond Banned Booksspotlights case studies drawn from public libraries, schools, universities, and government agencies dealing with library displays, artwork, programs, bookmarks and reading lists, social media, and databases; summarizes possible complaints and controversies related to each area;draws connections between the intellectual freedom principles involved and associated legal issues, with relevant court opinions when possible;shares questions to consider when strengthening a library’s defenses against censorship;discusses the importance of reporting challenges to OIF, and the professional and institutional support that OIF can provide when challenges arise; andincludes key ALA policies on intellectual freedom as appendices.This guide will ensure that libraries are prepared to protect diverse voices from censorship while fostering more inclusive institutions that represent and welcome all people and ideas.

Libraries, havens for the free exchange of ideas and information, face wide-ranging challenges relating to privacy and censorship from government, special interest groups, and others. With the updated seventh edition of the "Intellectual Freedom Manual", librarians have practical support at hand to address these troubling problems. This bible for intellectual freedom includes the most up-to-date intellectual freedom guidelines, policies, and interpretations of the Library Bill of Rights, along with the ALA Code of Ethics and Freedom to Read Statement. Eight newly Amended policies include: Access for Children and Young Adults to Nonprint Materials; Access to Electronic Information, Services, and Networks; Access to Library Resources and Services Regardless of Sex, Gender Identity, or Sexual Orientation; Access to Resources and Services in the School Library Media Program; Exhibit Spaces and Bulletin Boards; Free Access to Libraries for Minors; Labels and Rating Systems; and Restricted Access to Library Materials.The substantively revised policies include: Policy on Government Intimidation; The Freedom to Read Statement; and the Policy Concerning Confidentiality of Information about Library Users. New articles from leading experts address timely issues. Now, like never before, libraries must stand strong as beacons of intellectual freedom for all. ALA's "Intellectual Freedom Manual" provides the answers they need.

The newest edition of the Intellectual Freedom Manual is more than simply an update of a foundational text that has served as a crucial resource for more than four decades. It is a living document that serves as the authoritative reference for day-to-day guidance on maintaining free and equal access to information for all people. Whether you're developing or revising policies, on-boarding new staff or trustees, responding to challenges and controversies, or studying librarianship, you'll find this an indispensable resource, with features such asALA policy statements, approved by committees and Council, articulating core intellectual freedom principles and best practices;8 new interpretations of the Library Bill of Rights, which address urgent issues like internet filtering, public performances, political activity, religion, and equity, diversity, and inclusion;"Issues at a Glance" sidebars which present key concepts, points of law, tips, and questions for reflection;expanded content about developing library policies that support intellectual freedom;updated information on censorship of library programs, displays, and databases;"Advocacy and Assistance," a section offering concrete guidance when you're called on to talk to the media or meet with legislators;Deeper Look essays which examine the laws related to library operations;advice on when to call the police, when not to, and how to handle personally identifiable information when they arrive; andan expanded glossary.Using a topical arrangement with easy-to-read summaries to help readers find information quickly, this manual offers valuable support to library workers as they continue the important work of safeguarding intellectual freedom.