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The free exchange of ideas is central to any democracy, and libraries are central to the free exchange of ideas. Hafner examines many of the issues at the heart of the library's role in a democratic society and demonstrates the practical importance of the library's democratic mission. In order to make informed decisions about acquisitions, librarians must be familiar with the legal and intellectual debates surrounding controversial material. The opening chapters of the volume provide an historical and theoretical context for the democratic role of the library by discussing issues related to canonicity. Later chapters discuss legal issues related to the library as a forum for free expression, the Richard R. Kreimer case, and the confidentiality of library records. Chapter authors thoroughly discuss issues that impact the daily functioning of the library. Their backgrounds in library and political science, law, management, sociology, and literary studies bring a fresh perspective to these controversial and hotly debated issues. The book will be of special interest to all practicing librarians, library trustees and administators, and to library science students.
List of contents
Introduction
Democratic Ideals and the American Public Library by Arthur W. Hafner and Jennifer Sterling-Folker
Mortimer J. Adler's and Robert M. Hutchins's Vision of the Great Books by Arthur W. Hafner and Thomas M. Mick
The Canonicity Debate: An Overview for the Librarian by Brian Folker and Arthur W. Hafner
The American Public Library and the Constitutional Right to Freedom of Expression by Arthur W. Hafner and Jennifer Sterling-Folker
The Morristown, New Jersey, Experience: The Public Library as a Limited Public Forum and Lessons from the Richard R. Kreimer Case by Arthur W. Hafner, Jennifer Sterling-Folker, and Brian Folker
The Illinois Library Records Confidentiality Act: A Qualified Privilege by Arthur W. Hafner, Andrey B. Filipowicz, Brian Folker, and William P. Whitely
Librarians and Activism in Support of Democracy by Valerie Camarigg and Arthur W. Hafner
Index
About the author
ARTHUR W. HAFNER is a consultant, author, and lecturer. He is the former Director of the Division of Library and Information Management at the American Medical Association. He is an Adjunct Professor of Library Science at Rosary College.
Summary
The free exchange of ideas is central to any democracy, and libraries are central to the free exchange of ideas. Hafner examines many of the issues at the heart of the library's role in a democratic society and demonstrates the practical importance of the library's democratic mission.
