Academic Freedom and Student Empowerment

Librarians are responsible for developing and maintaining a collection of information for students to explore during their academic careers.

In the tradition of true liberal arts colleges, Lehman students are expected to receive a well-rounded education.  Having access to a diverse collection of resources can give students support when exploring and evolving their understanding of the world.  As library faculty, we are tasked to assist students on their quest for learning by providing perspectives on examining topics. Students visit the Library to locate information sparked by their coursework.

Students may start out with a broad idea that can be narrowed to a concise path the more they explore their topic.  Librarians should encourage students to explore both physical and digital collections, as well as become familiar with search techniques.  Students should also be able to find information on topics not prescribed in their coursework.  Having students actively explore different sources can be an exercise in learning how to trust sources.

Librarians can keep students engaged in collections if they provide sources not traditional in an academic sense.  Students often seek viewpoints not held by an older generation.  As library faculty, we can encourage students to examine multiple sides of a topic and allow space to develop critical thinking.

Library collections can become stale if efforts are not made to continuously grow and expand information while still preserving primary sources.

Expanding our collections strengthens academic freedom by ensuring students can investigate topics from every angle.  Libraries protect freedom to question, debate, and learn without restriction.  This principle keeps our collections vibrant and our academic community thriving.