by:
Freedom, Office for Intellectual (Editor)

Publisher:
American Library Association
Published:October 1, 2001
ISBN:0838935192
Format:Paperback
Pages:434

Description: From Library Journal
The sixth edition of "the Bible" in the library world belongs in every library in the country. This latest version has been updated, rewritten, and expanded by a team of experts in the field of intellectual freedom that include Beverly Becker, Rob Boston, Theresa Chmara, Bruce Ennis, Carol C. Henderson, Judith F. Krug, Anne Levinson Penway, Evelyn Shaevel, Linda K. Wallace, and Don Wood. Beginning with a historical overview of intellectual freedom, the book continues through to the challenges and issues facing librarians today, from the Communications Decency Act to the free access of the Internet and whether or not it creates a hostile work environment for employees. One of the strengths of the new edition is the inclusion of web addresses leading the reader to relevant and current information. Guidelines for developing policies and the policies of the American Library Association (ALA) are included and provide useful models to the reader. In the previous edition (Professional Media, LJ 6/1/96), the section on the Library Bill of Rights contained many interpretations, ranging from access to all types of materials for all types of users, to evaluation and diversity in collections. That is still true with the new edition, and there are now additions for access to resources and services regardless of gender or sexual orientation, as well as intellectual freedom principles for academic libraries. The section on "Protecting the Freedom To Read" adds ALA's statements on the value of American libraries, filtering software in libraries, and guidelines for developing a public Internet use policy. A section on "Steps To Take Before the Censor Comes" has been completely rewritten, and libraries would do well to be very familiar with it. A well-written volume, highly recommended for all libraries; don't be without it. Marie Bruni, Huntington Memorial Lib., Oneonta, NY
Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.