Intellectual
freedom is the right of every individual to both seek and receive
information from all points of view without restriction. It provides
for free access to all expressions of ideas through which any and
all sides of a question, cause or movement may be explored.
Library
Bill of Rights
The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are
forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies
should guide their services.
- Books
and other library resources should be provided for the interest,
information and enlightenment of all people of the community the
library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the
origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.
- Libraries
should provide materials and information presenting all points
of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not
be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.
- Libraries
should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility
to provide information and enlightenment.
- Libraries
should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting
abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.
- A
person’s right to use a library should not be denied or
abridged because of origin, age, background, or views.
- Libraries which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available
to the public they serve should make such facilities available
on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations
of individuals or groups requesting their use.
Adopted
June 18, 1948. Amended February 2, 1961; June 27, 1967; and January
23, 1980, by the ALA Council.
Adopted
by the Rockford Public Library Board of Trustees January 14, 2003
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