INTELLECTUAL FREEDOM POLICY

PURPOSE
As granted by Wisconsin State Statue 43.24(2)(k), the Fox Lake Public Library (FLPL) ensures the freedom to information and library services for everyone. Library material selections are made on the patron’s right to read, listen, or view, free from censorship by others. The FLPL supports the American Library Association’s (ALA) Library Bill of Rights, in addition to the Freedom to Read and the Freedom to View Statements. FLPL maintains censorship to be a personal matter and acknowledges that while anyone is free to reject materials of which they do not approve, they may not impede the freedom of others.

Materials available in FLPL present a variety of viewpoints, allowing patrons to make the informed choices necessary in a democracy. Per the Materials Collection Policy passed by the library board, FLPL selects a broad variety of materials that fulfill the various interests of the community. FLPL upholds the right of the individual to secure these resources, even though the content may be controversial, unorthodox, or unacceptable to some. The acquisition of such material does not constitute FLPL’s endorsement of the material’s content.

Responsibility for materials selected and read by children and adolescents rests with the youth’s parents or legal guardians. FLPL does not stand in loco parentis. Selection decisions are not influenced by the possibility that materials may be accessible to minors. In addition, library labels on materials are used to identify local materials in the collection, not to restrict access or endorse the material content. Materials kept in non-public areas are to prevent damage, theft or for the lack of space in the library proper.

While the collection is available to all; however, it is not expected that all items in the collections will appeal to everyone. FLPL recognizes that a collection of diverse materials may result in some complaints or requests for reconsideration. The procedures found in the Material Collection Policy, and re-evaluation request form were developed, by the Library Board, to ensure that complaints are handled in an attentive and consistent manner.

Definitions –Materials: Includes, books, periodicals, pictures, audio recordings, films, DVDs, software, databases, microforms, posters, displays, toys, kits, take and make crafts, performers, speakers, programming and any other form or format in which information and /or ideas may be expressed.

Adopted: May 3, 2022