Product Description

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.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #311737 in Books
• Published on: 2009-01-30
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 544 pages

From Library Journal
Since the fourth edition of the Intellectual Freedom Manual was published (Professional Reading, LJ 7/92), the Office of Intellectual Freedom (IFC) has adopted three new Interpretations of the Library Bill of rights. These newly published Interpretations establish policies for "Access to Library Resources and Services Regardless of Gender or Sexual Orientation," "Economic Barriers to Information Access," and "Universal Right to Free Expression." Although the IFC has prepared an Interpretation on "Access to Electronic Information, Services, and Networks," the final draft has not yet been adopted by the ALA Council and is not included in the new edition. Other features of this publication include guidelines for the development of policies on access to materials, user behavior, and library usage. There is also a chapter on how to deal with organized pressure groups and an updated bibliography. This convenient reference to the profession's intellectual freedom policies is recommended for all libraries.?Eloise R. Hitchcock, Tennessee Technological Univ. Lib., Cookeville
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist
This manual has long been useful for library administrators, practicing librarians, library school faculty and students, and anyone interested in access to information. The new edition is a required purchase for any library coping with the evolution of intellectual freedom principles and practices required by the advent of electronic access. There are new or updated guidelines regarding public library Internet use, user behavior, concerns about library resources, and filtering software. Included are the revised Freedom to Read Statement, the ALA Code of Ethics, and a selected bibliography. Background information includes an overview of intellectual freedom and examples of how the Library Bill of Rights has been interpreted. Ways to prepare for and deal with censorship and strategies for protecting intellectual freedom are offered. This practical manual clearly shows the rationale and history of the American Library Association's stance on our First Amendment rights, so that even those who do not agree completely with ALA's position can comprehend it. Sarah Sartain Jane
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

Review
"... this manual continues to be the primary, authoritative source on intellectual freedom policy, procedure and application for public, academic, special and school libraries. It is a 'must buy' for every library and a 'should buy' for every librarian." - Library Acquisitions: Practice & Theory"

Customer Reviews

Excellent resource for library professionals
This is a great book that thoroughly examines the ALA's dedication to intellectual freedom. A bit dry in places, certainly, but a wonderful resource for those interested in intellectual freedom and how that concept is represented in libraries.