Intellectual freedom manual /

Given that the protection and maintenance of intellectual freedom is a paramount duty of librarians and libraries, the Intellectual Freedom Manual is a necessity in any library. The eighth edition has been updated from the 2006 edition to include 3 new interpretations of the Library Bill of Rights (in the areas of the importance of education to intellectual freedom, minors and Internet activity, and services to persons with disabilities); 10 revised interpretations of sections of the manual; a resolution on the retention of library usage records; a section on RFID in libraries; and more. Related interpretations, policies, and documents are listed at the end of the text of each interpretation, when applicable. Major sections on Protecting the Freedom to Read, Code of Ethics of the American Library Association, Intellectual Freedom and the Law, and Preserving, Protecting, and Working for Intellectual Freedom give detailed yet concise information on these aspects of an essential mission. The manual is well organized, clear, and thorough, though hardly exhaustive. However, those wishing to access detailed, in-depth, and up-to-the-minute supplemental information will find it at www.ifmanual.org. A comprehensive table of contents, glossary, index, and selected bibliography offer points of entry and finding tools. A must purchase for all libraries.--Welton, Ann Copyright 2010 Booklist

Since the fourth edition of the Intellectual Freedom Manual was published (Professional Reading, LJ 7/92), the Office of Intellectual Freedom (IFC) has adopted three new Interpretations of the Library Bill of rights. These newly published Interpretations establish policies for "Access to Library Resources and Services Regardless of Gender or Sexual Orientation," "Economic Barriers to Information Access," and "Universal Right to Free Expression." Although the IFC has prepared an Interpretation on "Access to Electronic Information, Services, and Networks," the final draft has not yet been adopted by the ALA Council and is not included in the new edition. Other features of this publication include guidelines for the development of policies on access to materials, user behavior, and library usage. There is also a chapter on how to deal with organized pressure groups and an updated bibliography. This convenient reference to the profession's intellectual freedom policies is recommended for all libraries.‘Eloise R. Hitchcock, Tennessee Technological Univ. Lib., Cookeville (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.