Intellectual Freedom

What is intellectual freedom?
Intellectual freedom is the right to read, view, hear, express, and discuss any idea on any subject. Libraries are committed to satisfying the interests and needs of individuals of varied backgrounds and differing political beliefs.

Why is intellectual freedom important?
Intellectual freedom is an essential part of democracy. To make informed decisions, people need free access to information from many perspectives. Censorship weakens democracy.

It is important to know what and how other people think. Allowing one idea to be censored opens up the possibility that any idea can be censored.

Throughout history, people have tried to suppress many works and ideas for many different reasons. Books that have been banned include:

Asha's Mums
Dialogue on the Great World System (Galileo)
The Diviners
The Handmaid's Tale
Harry Potter series
Little Red Riding Hood
New Testament (Tyndale's translation)
Origin of Species
Peter Rabbit
The Satanic Verses

How does intellectual freedom affect what materials are in my library?
The library has a mandate to provide materials that reflect the needs and interests of everyone in the community. Librarians strive to include materials that represent the broadest possible range of ideas and points of view.

The fact that a particular item is on the shelf does not mean that the library endorses its content. What the library does endorse is free access to that item, despite the objections of those who would censor it.

What is the relationship between intellectual freedom and the law?
The legality of materials is decided by the courts of Canada. Libraries abide by these decisions.

Does intellectual freedom apply to more than the library's collection?
Yes! Intellectual freedom is of prime concern when decisions are made about the use of:
meeting rooms
bulletin board
space for free newspapers, magazines, and brochures

What about the Internet?
The Internet has given individuals, organizations, and businesses a new opportunity to promote and communicate their ideas worldwide. Librarians review and recommend Internet resources to meet your information needs, just as they recommend books and other library materials.

Libraries make Internet information available to everyone, even though some people may find particular sites objectionable.

What are the rights of children regarding intellectual freedom?
Children have the right to choose material that interests them. Parents have the right and responsibility to supervise their children's access to library resources. If your child chooses or views items which you consider inappropriate, you are encouraged to ask a librarian to locate things that you consider more suitable.

How do I express my concerns?
Intellectual freedom includes your right to express your concern about what is in your library or about what is not included. Ask library staff about the procedure to communicate your concerns or to make a request for purchase.

Additional Resources

British Columbia Library Association - About Intellectual Freedom

Canadian Library Association - Statement on Intellectual Freedom

American Library Association - The Freedom to Read Statement