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.
I. 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.
II. 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.
III. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment
of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.
IV. Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups
concerned with resisting abridgment of free expression and
free access to ideas.
V. A person’s right to use a library should not be
denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or
views.
VI. 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, and January 23, 1980,
inclusion of “age” reaffirmed January 23, 1996,
by the ALA Council.
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