Intellectual Freedom Policies

Intellectual Freedom Policies and Procedures

The Southwestern Consolidated media centers adhere to the principles of intellectual freedom provided by the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States.

The Southwestern Consolidated media centers operate in accordance with the American Library

Association Library Bill of Rights. This means that:

● Books and other resources will be available for the “interest, information, and enlightenment” of all students. No materials will be excluded due to the “origin, background, or views” of their creators (American Library Association).

● Students will have age-appropriate access to multiple points of view on current and historical issues. Access to these materials will not be restricted due to “partisan or doctrinal disapproval” (American Library Association).

● All SW students will have access to the media center, regardless of origin, background, or personal views (American Library Association).

The Southwestern Consolidated media centers also support the Freedom to Read Statement, which was developed jointly by the American Library Association and the Association of American Publishers. The statement can be found in its entirety at

http://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/freedomreadstatement

However, the Southwestern Consolidated media centers also realize that some materials are controversial. While the media specialist and aide carefully consider each selection, it is possible that a student, parent, guardian, or teacher might question the suitability of an item for the collection. Should a conflict of this nature arise, the first step that a concerned patron should take is to approach the media specialist for a conversation regarding the material. Patrons may have their questions answered and concerns assuaged through an explanation of why the item in question was added to the collection in the first place, or gaining more background on the item’s history. If such a conversation still leaves the patron unsatisfied, the patron can then complete a “Statement of Concern about Resources.” Following submission, the form will be considered by the media specialist and the building principal. In the case of a formal withdrawal hearing, the case may be elevated to the district superintendent.