Maine Library Association - Intellectual Freedom Committee

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Intellectual Freedom Committee

The Maine Library Association’s Intellectual Freedom Committee supports intellectual freedom as guaranteed by the United States Constitution and the Library Bill of Rights of the American Library Association.

Some of our goals are to:

Foster an understanding of, and commitment to, the principles of intellectual freedom in Maine libraries
Promote and extend the principle that individuals have a right to information
Promote and extend the principle that it is the right of each individual to determine what they choose to read, see or hear
Promote and extend the principle that it is the responsibility of librarians to make a wide variety of materials, information, and ideas accessible; and to prioritize the freedom of inquiry for our patrons and for all people
Share information to help Maine libraries navigate challenges to intellectual freedom
Promote and extend the principles of social justice, equity, and anti-racism as a requisite for intellectual freedom

We provide information and guidance to libraries when books, programs, or other resources are challenged. We share intellectual freedom resources provided by the American Library Association. We create materials that may be used by Maine librarians to help educate themselves and their patrons about intellectual freedom matters. We also offer presentations to the library community to provide support in adhering to best practices.

Resources

ADDRESSING BOOK CHALLENGES AND APPEALS

This document has information to help support you in this process.

Privacy in the Digital Age

"Privacy in the Digital Age (2016)" is a slide presentation with notes that discusses ways to think about privacy in today’s world.

Library Security Checklist

This document shares strategic tips and actions for maintaining library security.

Intellectual Freedom Issues in Libraries

“Intellectual Freedom Issues in Libraries (2016)” offers an overview of some of the Intellectual Freedom issues that librarians face today.

Report & Support

The ALA Office for Intellectual Freedom (OIF) encourages everyone to report any and all challenges to materials, online resources (including databases), programs, speakers, displays, reading lists, and author visits. MLA works closely with the ALA OIF to support Maine libraries that receive challenges.

Use of these materials

These materials can be used as background information, or may be copied or excerpted for activities such as library programs or presentations for the public or library staff. These are PDF files that contains both slides and presenter notes. These materials are offered under a Creative Commons license (CC BY). Use it as you see fit but please credit the source.

Maine Library Association

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Belchertown, MA 01007

207.744.7919

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Intellectual Freedom Advocacy Group