[LM_NET] Golden Compass and the ALA Code of Ethics

[Doug Johnson <doug0077@GMAIL.COM>]

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-johnson.squarespace.com/

³Thou shalt not² might reach the head, but it takes ³Once upon a time² to
reach the heart. Philip Pullman

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