Guidelines for Managing Intellectual Freedom Issues
The Wisconsin Library Association's Intellectual Freedom Committee recommends that Wisconsin libraries use the following guidelines to develop policies and procedures in managing intellectual freedom issues.
1. Libraries should have a written policy regarding intellectual freedom procedures. These procedures should be reviewed periodically for updating and to refresh staff about the policy and practices.
2. In the event of a challenge situation, the library director or designated person can notify the Intellectual Freedom Committee Chair through the WLA Office (Telephone: 608-245-3640; FAX (608) 245-3646; email strand@scls.lib.wi.us). The director or designee may also alert the appropriate contacts for the library; for example, the local public library system headquarters, the academic library network or the local CESA office.
3. After contact by the designated person, the WLA Intellectual Freedom Committee will provide a support package consisting of American Library Association and Wisconsin Library Association materials.
4. In the event of an escalating challenge, the library s designated representative is encouraged to contact the local office of the American Civil Liberties Union as a means of obtaining additional legal support.
5. The library under challenge is also encouraged to keep the WLA Intellectual Freedom Committee up-to-date on the situation.
6. Upon the request of the challenged library, the Intellectual Freedom Committee will make an appropriate recommendation for WLA Board action.
Amended and Accepted by the WLA Board of Directors, February 18, 2000