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Library Bill of
Rights
The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for
information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their services.
- Books and other library resources should be provided for the
interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library
serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of
those contributing to their creation.
- Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all
points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or
removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.
- Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their
responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.
- Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with
resisting abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.
- A person's right to use a library should not be denied or abridged
because of origin, age, background, or views.
- Libraries which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to
the public they serve should make such facilities available on an equitable basis,
regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals or groups requesting their use.
Adopted June 18, 1948; Amended February 2, 1961; June 27,
1967; January 23, 1980 by the ALA Council
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