APPROVED: Board of Supervisors
Date: 2/17/98
Section: 3101
The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for
information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their
services:
1. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest,
information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library
services. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or
views of those contributing to their creation.
2. 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.
3. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to
provide information and enlightenment.
4. Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with
resisting abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.
5. A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of
origin, age, background, or views.
6. 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.
