Libraries & MoralityThe American library in the mid-19th century embraced the philosophy that some books were more morally acceptable than other thus influencing book selection.
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Intellectual FreedomIn the 20th century, librarians embraced protecting democracy through intellectual freedom. This would shape libraries to become what we know of them today.
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Self-CensorshipSelf-censorship is still an issue in today's libraries thanks to the fear of book challenges and retaliation from patrons who object to certain library material.
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The American Public Library Today
The American public library is more than just a storehouse for books. It has become a symbol that stands on the side of intellectual freedom, protecting patrons’ right to read through events like Banned Books Week to the American Library Association’s Freedom to Read Statement to the ALA’s Library Bill of Rights. The library in the 20th and 21st centuries is seen as an institution that has worked to ensure access to materials for all patrons. |
The American Public Library of the Past
However, the library institution has not always erred on the side of intellectual freedom. The 19th century saw a boom in public libraries not because of any freedom to read movement, but because “reading [was seen] as a means of reform and self-improvement” (Stewart, 2006, p. 404). Furthermore, librarians often saw themselves as gatekeepers, keeping patrons away from immoral books. |
The Persistence of Self-Censorship
While the library's 'self-censorship' of the 19th century is usually contrasted with the 20th century’s move towards intellectual freedom, self-censorship is still an issue in public libraries today. Self-censorship is hard to talk about not only because it’s not often documented, but that it isn’t often discussed by those who do it. Some working in the library may not even be aware that they are participating in self-censorship. By exploring library history, this website hopes to better understand self-censorship in public libraries and libraries in general as well as draw attention to the phenomenon and offer ideas on how to address it.
While the library's 'self-censorship' of the 19th century is usually contrasted with the 20th century’s move towards intellectual freedom, self-censorship is still an issue in public libraries today. Self-censorship is hard to talk about not only because it’s not often documented, but that it isn’t often discussed by those who do it. Some working in the library may not even be aware that they are participating in self-censorship. By exploring library history, this website hopes to better understand self-censorship in public libraries and libraries in general as well as draw attention to the phenomenon and offer ideas on how to address it.