The American Library Association has a step by step guide for responding to challenges. Visit this page for more information.

"How to Respond to Challenges and Concerns about Library Resources", American Library Association, December 8, 2016. http://www.ala.org/tools/challengesupport/respond.

Listen to Concerns

• Acknowledge the complainants' concerns without committing to an (a formal) action.

• Take notes on the conversation.

• Offer assistance in finding alternative materials.

• Direct complainant to district reconsideration policy if formal reconsideration requested.

• Inform your principal/administrator of the complainants' concerns.

Get Support

• Contact ALA's Office for Intellectual Freedom.

• Use this Reporting Form to document your challenge with PSLA and (optionally) request help from the PSLA Rapid Response Team.

• Speak with your union representative.

• Identify allies (within school and/or district, community, librarian colleagues, professional networks) and enlist their support. Our Resource page can get you started.

• Amplify student voice.

Prepare for the Challenge

• Be familiar with district's library materials selection policy and reconsideration policy.

• Read the challenged material in its entirety.

• Review relevant questions/answers regarding Intellectual Freedom and censorship.

• Educate stakeholders about policies and procedures (Keep in mind, administrators may not be aware of district policy in regards to material reconsideration).

 Protect Yourself/Self-Care

• Online Harassment Field Manual  (from PEN America)

• Tip Sheet for Librarians Facing Harassment

• How to Lock Down Social Media Accounts

Engage in Informal Debate

• Resist the urge to argue the merits of a work with the complainant outside of the reconsideration process (i.e. face-to-face or email discussion with complainant).

Post Identifying Information in a Social Media/Online Platform

• Avoid sharing information online that could potentially identify the complainant or directly quote their concerns (Carefully consider how you share information about the challenge when requesting support from allies).