Library Bill of Rights
Basic to the policy is the Library Bill of Rights as adopted by the American Library Association.
The 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
enlightment 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 a 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 idea.
- 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 on January 23, 1980 by the American Library Association Council.
