Freedom
to View
Freedom
to View Statement
The FREEDOM TO VIEW, along with the freedom to speak, to hear, and
to read, is protected by the First
Amendment to the Constitution of the United States. In a free
society, there is no place for censorship of any medium of expression.
Therefore these principles are affirmed:
-
To provide the broadest access to film, video, and other audiovisual
materials because they are a means for the communication of ideas.
Liberty of circulation is essential to insure the constitutional
guarantees of freedom of expression.
- To
protect the confidentiality of all individuals and institutions
using film, video, and other audiovisual materials.
- To
provide film, video, and other audiovisual materials which represent
a diversity of views and expression. Selection of a work does
not constitute or imply agreement with or approval of the content.
- To provide a diversity of viewpoints without the constraint
of labeling or prejudging film, video, or other audiovisual materials
on the basis of the moral, religious, or political beliefs of
the producer or filmmaker or on the basis of controversial content.
- To
contest vigorously, by all lawful means, every encroachment upon
the public's freedom to view.
This statement was originally drafted by the Freedom to View Committee
of the American Film and Video Association (formerly the Educational
Film Library Association) and was adopted by the AFVA Board of Directors
in February 1979. This statement was updated and approved by the AFVA
Board of Directors in 1989.
Endorsed by the ALA Council January 10, 1990
Adopted by the Rockford Public Library Board of Trustees January 14,
2003
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