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You are so right, so many paraprofessionals and LMT's see themselves as gatekeepers. I've been fighting a contingent in my district that hide behind "selection" to censor. I gently remind them that we have a responsibility to observe the ALA Code of Ethics. Joy Millam Library Media Goddess/Teacher Valencia High School Placentia, CA 714-996-4970 x3250 http://www.vhstigers.org/library/mrs_millam.jsp?rn=3833 "Libraries are not made; they grow." - Augustine Birrell -----Original Message----- From: School Library Media & Network Communications on behalf of Chris Getty Sent: Wed 10/31/2007 10:31 AM To: LM_NET@LISTSERV.SYR.EDU Subject: Re: Golden Compass and the ALA Code of Ethics Kudos for reminding everyone! Too bad the code of ethics is not an oath we swear to! I get dismayed at librarians who consider themselves "gatekeepers" in all the exclusive and protective senses of the word. I prefer to see myself as a "concierge" serving others by connecting them to resources, -- "opening doors" in a wider sense. Chris Getty "Access to knowledge is the superb, the supreme act of truly great civilizations. Of all the institutions that purport to do this, free libraries stand virtually alone in accomplishing this mission.". -Toni MORRISON American novelist (1931-) Christine B.Getty Librarian/Media Specialist Plainwell Middle and High School Plainwell, Michigan 49080 cgetty@plainwellschools.org >>> Doug Johnson <doug0077@GMAIL.COM> 10/31/2007 11:20 AM >>> Hi folks, Given the recent discussion of The Golden Compass and our individual reactions toward it (interesting reading, BTW), it might be a good time to review The American Library Association Code of Ethics <http://www.ala.org/ala/oif/statementspols/codeofethics/codeethics.htm>, especially items II and VII. I. We provide the highest level of service to all library users through appropriate and usefully organized resources; equitable service policies; equitable access; and accurate, unbiased, and courteous responses to all requests. II. We uphold the principles of intellectual freedom and resist all efforts to censor library resources. III. We protect each library user's right to privacy and confidentiality with respect to information sought or received and resources consulted, borrowed, acquired or transmitted. IV. We recognize and respect intellectual property rights. V. We treat co-workers and other colleagues with respect, fairness and good faith, and advocate conditions of employment that safeguard the rights and welfare of all employees of our institutions. VI. We do not advance private interests at the expense of library users, colleagues, or our employing institutions. VII. We distinguish between our personal convictions and professional duties and do not allow our personal beliefs to interfere with fair representation of the aims of our institutions or the provision of access to their information resources. VIII. We strive for excellence in the profession by maintaining and enhancing our own knowledge and skills, by encouraging the professional development of co-workers, and by fostering the aspirations of potential members of the profession. Regardless of our own religious values or personal tastes, we should fight to keep Pullman's books on our shelves. As well as C.S. Lewis's books. As well as any writing that has been critically and positively reviewed. Our profession needs to handle this one better than they did _Lucky_! All the best, Doug Doug Johnson Director of Media and Technology Mankato Area Public Schools Box 8713, 1351 S Riverfront Dr. Mankato MN 56001-8714 Phone: 507-387-7698 x 473 E-mail: doug0077@gmail.com Web: www.doug-johnson.com Blue Skunk Blog: http://doug ( http://doug/ )-johnson.squarespace.com/ ³Thou shalt not² might reach the head, but it takes ³Once upon a time² to reach the heart. Philip Pullman -------------------------------------------------------------------- Please note: All LM_NET postings are protected by copyright law. You can prevent most e-mail filters from deleting LM_NET postings by adding LM_NET@LISTSERV.SYR.EDU to your e-mail address book. 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