Library Intellectual Freedom Statement

The Library upholds the principle of Intellectual Freedom for all library users in accordance with the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights.

Library collection materials are provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of our community, and we resist censorship in fulfilling our responsibilities. A patron’s right to use our Library will not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, gender, or views; and we strive to protect user’s privacy and confidentiality in their library use. 

The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their services.

I. 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.

II. 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.

III. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.

IV. Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.

V. A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views.

VI. 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.

OCCC Library | 21 Sep 2016