I NTELLECTUAL F REEDOM : I N A NUTSHELL !! By Kelly Morrison

W HAT IS I NTELLECTUAL F REEDOM ? In a nutshell!! - An individual has the right to express their own beliefs and should have unrestricted access to the information (even if the view is unpopular or unorthodox).

W HAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR A T EACHER ? - this means that students should be able to read what they want, even if you disagree with it. - you can express opinions, but watch what you say. - You should be a guide for your students in regards to literature, not a leader.

W HAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR A L IBRARIAN ? You have to allow the students’ access to the materials through the library. - materials should be out in the main library collection, and not tucked away in a “special collection.” -the librarian must order materials for all beliefs, and remain unbiased. - the librarian should assist students in finding the needed materials, without being too opinionated. This means finding out what the student needs. (“guide don’t lead”) - the students still have parents, and you have to respect that. - The librarian must be trusted, and confidentiality is a must. (the students should be able to ask for assistance without worrying that the subject of their search will be shared.)

W HAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR A S TUDENT ? This means that students have the right, just like an adult, to services, materials, and facilities of the library. THERE IS A LIBRARY BILL OF RIGHTS!!

W HAT A BOUT B ANNED BOOKS ? Book will be challenged for various reasons, including religion, sex, language, or interpretation of the story. -the libraries goal is to not censor, and the hope is we never have the issue of “banning books.” -the students need to be taught that everyone has the right to their own opinion, and that they have a choice (“freedom to choose or the freedom to express”). -banned book week is held the last week in September each year. (It is a celebration of freedom, and not the banning of books ).

R ESOURCES FOR MORE INFORMATION : ALA: Banned and Challenged books - ex.cfm ex.cfm Library Bill of Rights - /librarybill/index.cfm /librarybill/index.cfm More on Intellectual Freedom - /index.cfm /index.cfm

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