The Clarence Mitchell Library supports the American Library Association’s Bill of Rights, Code of Ethics, and its statement regarding Challenged Materials. The Library attempts to purchase materials which represent differing opinions on controversial matters, and selects books without partisanship regarding race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or moral philosophy.

We understand that occasionally some kinds of books and pictures may challenge the beliefs or ideologies of readers and viewers. We recognize that may be inevitable in a free and open society.

The library encourages those who may be concerned with the content or the presentation of materials to discuss their concerns with the librarian. As a general rule, however, the library will not remove or limit access to any material purchased by the library. We will gladly purchase materials of opposing viewpoints for addition to the collection. If the content or graphic depiction can be shown to pose imminent physical harm, e.g. mislabeling of toxic plants, the item will be removed until such time as the claim can be factually verified.

 

The library will consider all concerns with respect to the above policy. Challenges to particular items should be submitted in writing to the Dean of Learning Resources with a description of 1.) what specifically is objected to, and 2.) why. In the case of books, it would be expected that the work must be judged in its entirety and that words or phrases not be judged independent of context.

To contact us:  815-599-3539