Re: [LM_NET] GEN: Collection development and censorship issues

[Shonda Brisco <sbrisco@GMAIL.COM>]

I think that Carol's point was that her research was to help
administrators understand that IF they chose to place individuals
without library certification in the position of the "school
librarian" then they should also be aware of one of the major
"battles" that school librarians (and ultimately, administrators) must
face --- the threat of censorship.

While I understand the difficult position that many clerks / library
assistants have as they assume the role (and the responsibility) of a
certified librarian, I do believe that many mistakes are made when
those who have not taken courses on young adult literature, childrens'
literature, selection, and library administration (which includes
professional ethics)  attempt to assume the duties of a certified
librarian by selecting materials for a library -- regardless of
whether that person is an administrator or a library clerk.

The bottom line is that many certified librarians have studied not
only the literature that we select but also understand the
professional responsibilities and ethical issues surrounding book
selection.  While many of us make it look easy, the reality is that
book selection is a very tedious process that involves understanding
more than just what "types of kids"  use the library or "what reading
level" a specific book might be.  We review, compare, analyze, and
usually read the books that we purchase.  We also connect the material
directly to the curriculum, determine ways to extend the book (when
needed), and vow to defend the book against those who want to remove
it based upon our professional judgment and experience.

No, not everyone would stand up to defend every title selected;
however, most certified librarians feel an ethical sense to
stand-strong against those who want to remove books from the
collection without going through the proper channels.  Unlike
administrators who might remove a title without considering their
actions or library clerks who might remove a title as directed by a
parent or an administrator who is pressured by a parent, many
certified librarians would demand that "the process of reconsideration
of library materials" be followed.  Many librarians will also fight
for the rights of others to access this information, regardless of the
views of "a few" who do not agree with the content.

Our responsibility as professional, certified librarians is not taken
lightly.  Although many of us would never want to place the duties
that we face daily on the shoulders of those who should not be
required to carry those responsibilities, we often do not have a
choice. However, I do believe that Carol's work is an important tool
that we can use to educate administrators about the important,
professional, and unwavering work that many certified librarians do
each day to defend the rights of everyone to have access to ALL
information.


~Shonda
-- 
Shonda Brisco, MLIS
Library Media / Technology Specialist
Digital Bookends wiki / blog:
http://digitalbookends.pbwiki.com
http://shonda.edublogs.org/
sbrisco@gmail.com

Resources for Texas School Librarians:
http://txschoollibrarians.ning.com/
http://txschoollibrarians.wikispaces.com/

"Digital Resources" columnist
School Library Journal

--------------------------------------------------------------------
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.
To change your LM_NET status, e-mail to: listserv@listserv.syr.edu
In the message write EITHER: 1) SIGNOFF LM_NET  2) SET LM_NET NOMAIL
 3) SET LM_NET MAIL  4) SET LM_NET DIGEST  * Allow for confirmation.
 * LM_NET Help & Information: http://www.eduref.org/lm_net/
 * LM_NET Archive: http://www.eduref.org/lm_net/archive/
 * EL-Announce with LM_NET Select: http://lm-net.info/
 * LM_NET Supporters: http://www.eduref.org/lm_net/ven.html
 * LM_NET Wiki: http://lmnet.wikispaces.com/
--------------------------------------------------------------------