Why Intellectual Freedom and Equitable Access Are Even More Important Today

Y

8

Intellectual Freedom; Access to Information; Librarians; Constitutional Law; Freedom of Speech; Court Litigation; Public Schools; Censorship; Student Rights; School Libraries; Library Policy; Library Materials

First Amendment; Tinker v Des Moines Independent School District

1094-9046

Libraries still stand as a source of knowledge that can guide us to make informed decisions through the use of credible sources. A balanced collection that provides access to all points of view empowers a community to use information responsibly and make decisions independently. Intellectual freedom and equity of access are still important issues today, especially when confronting uncertain times with the COVID-19 virus and distance education. Through education and the information found in libraries, democracy allows citizens to experience free speech through dialogue not diatribe and to support our opinions with a respect for the diversity of our fellow citizens and a desire to realize equity and justice. From physical access to material selection to policies dealing with challenges to privacy of patron information, the article argues that school librarians must demonstrate intellectual freedom to maintain a free and open forum for ideas. They should be protectors of intellectual freedom for minors just as public libraries protect the rights of all citizens regardless of age.

ERIC

2020

EJ1272826