Code of Ethics
American Library Association Code
of Ethics
As members of the American Library Association,
we recognize the importance of codifying and making known to
the profession and to the general public the ethical
principles that guide the work of librarians, other professionals
providing information services, library trustees and library staffs.
Ethical dilemmas occur when values are in conflict. The
American Library Association Code of Ethics states the values to
which we are committed, and embodies the ethical responsibilities
of the profession in this changing information environment.
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.
The principles of this Code are expressed in broad statements
to guide ethical decision making. These statements provide a framework;
they cannot and do not dictate conduct to cover particular situations.
I. We provide the highest level of service to all library
users through appropriate and usefully organized resources; equitable
service policies; equitable access; and accurate, unbiased, and courteous
responses to all requests.
II. We uphold the principles of intellectual freedom and
resist all efforts to censor library resources.
III. We protect each library user’s right to privacy
and confidentiality with respect to information sought or received and
resources consulted, borrowed, acquired or transmitted.
IV. We recognize and respect intellectual property rights.
V. We treat co-workers and other colleagues with respect, fairness and
good faith, and advocate conditions of employment that safeguard the rights
and welfare of all employees of our institutions.
VI. We do not advance private interests at the expense of library users,
colleagues, or our employing institutions.
VII. We distinguish between our personal convictions and professional duties
and do not allow our personal beliefs to interfere with fair representation of
the aims of our institutions or the provision of access to their information
resources.
VIII. We strive for excellence in the profession by maintaining
and enhancing our own knowledge and skills, by encouraging the professional
development of co-workers, and by fostering the aspirations of potential members
of the profession.
Adopted by the ALA Council June 28, 1995
Quoted from the ALA website.
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