Reconsideration Guiding Principles

• Libraries and schools have diverse materials reflecting differing points of view, and our mission is to provide access to information to all users.

• All library users have a First Amendment right to read, view, and listen to library and educational resources.

• The Library Bill of Rights and the Freedom to Read Statement of the American Library Association can be used as guiding documents.

• Any person has the right to express concerns about library and educational resources and expect to have the objection taken seriously.

• When library and educational resources are reconsidered, the principles of the freedom to read, listen, and view are defended rather than specific materials.

• A questioned item will be considered in its entirety, not judged solely on portions taken out of context.

• Parents or guardians have the right to guide the reading, viewing, and listening of their children, but must give the same right to other parents/guardians.

• Questioned items will remain in circulation during the reconsideration process.

• The reconsideration process should be completed in its entirety and not subverted or ended prematurely, leaving the library and school open to legal challenge.

https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/librarybill