Statement on Intellectual FreedomFolke Bernadotte Memorial Library

We believe unfettered access to information is critical for communities to make informed decisions. We resist censorship in all of its forms. We affirm the right of individuals to inquire in privacy without fear that what they read will be used against them.

The American Library Association’s Code of Ethics states that librarians “have a special obligation to ensure the free flow of information and ideas to present and future generations.” The Library Bill of Rights also states “libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.” In that spirit, we oppose on principle all efforts to silence speech and restrict access to information.

Passed on November 30, 2012

Note: This statement was passed by the faculty of the Folke Bernadotte Memorial Library, in the wake of the removal of posters about the GustieLeaks website from campus in fall 2012, when the library faculty felt that, regardless of the motives for or contents of the website, it was important to affirm our core professional values as librarians.