We significantly influence or control the selection, organization, preservation, and dissemination of information. In a political system grounded in an informed citizenry, we are members of a profession explicitly committed to intellectual freedom and the freedom of access to information. We have a special obligation to ensure the free flow of information and ideas to present and future generations.
ALA Code of Ethics, 1939, updated 2008
Just as libraries represent notions of freedom, education, and a love of reading, we also exist within a society and culture of great disparity and oppression. In one very simplistic sense, the existence of libraries themselves attest to this reality, since freely available resources wouldn’t be necessary if it weren’t the case that not everyone has equal access to these resources.
nina dejesus, "Locating the Library in Institutional Oppression," In the Library with the Lead Pipe, 2014
this photo was taken IN THIS VERY ROOM at Amy Collier's wonderful show "Cute Animal Facts Dot Com"
A key consideration for librarians has always been how we provide access to information and cultural works. Late stage capitalism is no time to give up this tradition.
"Who are you Empowering?" Hugh Rundle, In the Library with the Lead Pipe, 2014
We cannot stay "neutral"
Andromeda Yelton @thatandromeda
Alison Macrina
@flexlibris
Nima Fatemi
@mrphs
Jason Griffey @griffey
Staying Private in Public (Libraries)
Sarah Hackney @fiiidget
Annie Pho
@catladylib
Emily Drabinski
@edrabinski
Critical Pedagogy, Cats, and #critlib