Ensuring Intellectual Freedom and Access to Information in the School Library Media Program

Book excerpt: Over two-thirds of all challenges to books and other resources reported to the ALA Office for Intellectual Freedom occur in schools. This book explores intellectual freedom issues in school library media programs including selection of resources and materials selection policies, challenges and censorship, students' freedom to read, patron privacy and confidentiality of library records, the blocking of Internet resources, access to the school library media center, its resources, and services for students with special needs, and advocacy for minors' First Amendment rights in school library media programs. Throughout the text, practicing public school and private school library media specialists at different grade levels candidly share their stories and observations on how intellectual freedom principles and ALA policy statements apply to real life situations. Attorney Mary Minow provides vital information about the impact of the First Amendment, federal and state law, and court decisions on minors using libraries in schools. Whether a library media specialist in the field or a student in a graduate or undergraduate library and information studies program, readers will find both practical information and advice to complement the concepts found in the American Library Association's Intellectual Freedom Manual. Print and Web resources are included.