Library Bill of Rights
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.
- Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and
enlightenment.
- Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free
expression and free access to ideas.
- A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or
views.
- 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.
Adopted June 18, 1948. Amended by the ALA Council February 2, 1961; June 27, 1967; and
January 23, 1980.
Reprinted by permission of the American Library Association.