Evaluating Library Collections:
An Interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights
The continuous review of library materials is necessary as a means of
maintaining an active library collection of current interest to users.
In the process, materials may be added and physically deteriorated or
obsolete materials may be replaced or removed in accordance with the
collection maintenance policy of a given library and the needs of the
community it serves. Continued evaluation is closely related to the
goals and responsibilities of libraries and is a valuable tool of
collection development. This procedure is not to be used as a convenient
means to remove materials presumed to be controversial or disapproved of
by segments of the community. Such abuse of the evaluation function
violates the principles of intellectual freedom and is in opposition to
the Preamble and Articles 1 and 2 of the Library Bill of Rights, which
state:
The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums
for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies
should guide their services.
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. 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.
The American Library Association opposes such "silent
censorship" and strongly urges that libraries adopt guidelines
setting forth the positive purposes and principles of evaluation of
materials in library collections.
Adopted February 2, 1973; amended July 1, 1981, by the ALA Council.
[ISBN 8389-5406-5]
