The Benefits of Library Neutrality in Service to Our Users

Academic libraries are a critical resource supporting the study, research, teaching, exploration, and scholarship conducted by students, faculty, and staff.  Through its collections of general and specialized databases, print and electronic books, open access, and other resources, library patrons are well able to investigate virtually all topics and points of view.  They can additionally tap into the library’s network of collaborating institutions to further fulfill their information needs.

What drives academic library collection development is the institution’s particular curricular emphases.  Through shared governance bodies such as the College Senate, course offerings are approved.  Over time faculty may tweak content offered in their individual courses.  Course offerings are never static.  Faculty refine and continually aim to enrich their teaching with newer developments.  They also aspire to inclusiveness in alignment with the home institution’s mission.

Librarians, particularly in the public academic library environment, must remain neutral and non- judgmental in dealing with patrons of diverse backgrounds, religious and political persuasions. They do not proselytize or attempt to convert others to their personal views or values.  All requests for information assistance must be handled respectfully and without bias.

Maintaining a library that is welcoming and accessible to all members of its community is a core value.  As a teaching and learning environment, our academic institutions are capable of civil discourse and even debate.  These explorations offer an opportunity to think more critically about issues beyond one’s own viewpoint.  Hopefully, too, it can result in increased understanding of others.

Janet Butler Munch