The American Library Association 

Affirms that all

libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic

policies should guide their services.

1.    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.

2.    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.

3.    Libraries should challenge censorship

in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and

enlightenment.

4.    Libraries should cooperate with all

persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free expression and

free access to ideas.

5.    A person’s right to use a library

should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views.

6.    Libraries that 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 June 19, 1939,by the ALA Council; amended October 14, 1944; June 18, 1948; February 2, 1961;June 27, 1967; January 23, 1980; inclusion of “age” reaffirmed January 23, 1996.