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By Ashley Parker
Have you ever wondered how decisions are made at the library?
There are several regulations to consider when a decision is made at the library. Decisions are not made lightly or flippantly. Most decisions are ultimately made based on policies set in place by the Board of Library Trustees. Policies exist for all aspects of library decision making and the Librarian and the library staff make every day decisions based on the regulations set forth in the Library’s Policy Manual. One of the most important policies states that the Malvern-Hot Spring County Library supports the adherence to the American Library Associations approved Library Bill of Rights. You might be wondering what the Library Bill of Rights are and what they mean. The Library Bill of Rights is a document drawn up by the American Library Association to ensure that everyone has equal and fair access to information. The Library Bill of Rights is as follows: 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. What does the Library Bill of Rights mean to you? It means that your right to information, expression, and point of view are protected. It means that you are free to read and search for the information you need and want without being hindered by anyone else’s view points or opinions. As a Library institution, it is our job to insure you get what you need without any judgment or prejudice from our staff or the nature in which we collect materials and information. (Ashley Parker is the librarian at the Malvern/Hot Spring County Library) |
