Folks, this is slightly off-topic for your discussions this week (although, actually, not really too much so), but NPR has an interesting AND VERY HELPFUL map, put together by ALA and some other fellow-travelers, tracing banned book cases over the past three years.
You can check out the map here:
http://www.npr.org/blogs/alltechconsidered/2010/10/01/130266322/banned-books-week-google-map
Monday, October 4, 2010
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Codes of Ethics
First off, I would just like to say I love Cookie Monster! Thanks for the video Mel.
As others noted, I am always surprised at how simple ethical codes or codes of responsibility appear on the surface but become very complex once you try to apply them or actually think about why certain language was used. I think one of the main problems is that our personal ethics will inevitably conflict with a professional responsibility and the code of ethics will not always tell us what to do. We can recite in our minds that we will keep personal beliefs and professional responsibilities separate, but on some level that almost becomes a choice between following the code of ethics but hating ourselves for it or violating the code of ethics but staying true to ourselves. We spent a lot of time talking about such conflicts in my professional responsibilities class for law school.
I agree with Abbott and other posters that librarians will continue to be needed, and that we just need to embrace the change. I am confident that despite technological advances, librarians will still be integral to the public and other professionals in finding information. For example, many databases now allow lawyers to keyword search cases, statutes, and other legal documents; however, these lawyers still come to law librarians for helping finding information. The librarian understands how the databases are organized, how searching actually works, and the limitations of the databases; you can show lawyers how to search in legal databases, but it is still more cost effective for a librarian to do it. Therefore, as long as people need information, some form of librarian will also be needed.
I looked at the ethical principles of the American Association of Law Libraries (http://www.aallnet.org/about/policy_ethics.asp). Many of the provisions are similar to the ALA code of ethics and the other codes of ethics looked at by other class members. Two things stood out to me:
As others noted, I am always surprised at how simple ethical codes or codes of responsibility appear on the surface but become very complex once you try to apply them or actually think about why certain language was used. I think one of the main problems is that our personal ethics will inevitably conflict with a professional responsibility and the code of ethics will not always tell us what to do. We can recite in our minds that we will keep personal beliefs and professional responsibilities separate, but on some level that almost becomes a choice between following the code of ethics but hating ourselves for it or violating the code of ethics but staying true to ourselves. We spent a lot of time talking about such conflicts in my professional responsibilities class for law school.
I agree with Abbott and other posters that librarians will continue to be needed, and that we just need to embrace the change. I am confident that despite technological advances, librarians will still be integral to the public and other professionals in finding information. For example, many databases now allow lawyers to keyword search cases, statutes, and other legal documents; however, these lawyers still come to law librarians for helping finding information. The librarian understands how the databases are organized, how searching actually works, and the limitations of the databases; you can show lawyers how to search in legal databases, but it is still more cost effective for a librarian to do it. Therefore, as long as people need information, some form of librarian will also be needed.
I looked at the ethical principles of the American Association of Law Libraries (http://www.aallnet.org/about/policy_ethics.asp). Many of the provisions are similar to the ALA code of ethics and the other codes of ethics looked at by other class members. Two things stood out to me:
- I think it is interesting that the ethical principles include a paragraph about providing cost effective services. "We strive to obtain the maximum value for our institution's fiscal resources, while at the same time making judicious, analytical and rational use of our institution's information resources."
- The ethical principles require law librarians to provide "zealous service" but then acknowledge that services may be limited by institutions and the need to avoid the unauthorized practice of law.
Wandering Librarians and the MLA
One thing which ran true with me from Abbott’s article was his passage – “But ask any librarian-as an individual-about her history and one hears a tale of wandering”
In fact, nearly every librarian I have talked to in my years in libraries have indicated that librarians come from a wide scope of individuals. I know librarians, for example, which were architects, secretaries, teachers, student teachers, biologists, chemist, small business owners, store managers, and even bowling alley clerks. I myself did my undergrad in science education. Librarianship is a path which demands the knowledge of multiple sects of information – and so I would argue that our collective backgrounds are a great strength for it means that there is a librarian who is an “expert” in something almost anywhere – and through our professional organizations (ALA, ILA, YALSA, RUSA, MLA, etc) we can communicate and tap into each other’s knowledge to become pseudo-experts on many topics ourselves to better serve our population.
For the second half of this blog post I have delved into my roots and chose to present the code of ethics for the Medical Library Association (MLA) - http://www.mlanet.org/about/ethics.html. For some reason (probably because I think of medicine as a complicated thing), I thought the MLA code of ethics would be longer; more complex. But, it is short and straightforward. The “Code of Ethics Defined” link provides a deeper insight to the terminology used within the MLA ethical code – I found this extremely useful as I am not very familiar with ethical medical terms; it also translates the code into concrete expectations of its members. Frankly, the MLA code of ethics is pretty standard – a nice mix of medical ethical codes and the Library Bill of Rights.
In fact, nearly every librarian I have talked to in my years in libraries have indicated that librarians come from a wide scope of individuals. I know librarians, for example, which were architects, secretaries, teachers, student teachers, biologists, chemist, small business owners, store managers, and even bowling alley clerks. I myself did my undergrad in science education. Librarianship is a path which demands the knowledge of multiple sects of information – and so I would argue that our collective backgrounds are a great strength for it means that there is a librarian who is an “expert” in something almost anywhere – and through our professional organizations (ALA, ILA, YALSA, RUSA, MLA, etc) we can communicate and tap into each other’s knowledge to become pseudo-experts on many topics ourselves to better serve our population.
For the second half of this blog post I have delved into my roots and chose to present the code of ethics for the Medical Library Association (MLA) - http://www.mlanet.org/about/ethics.html. For some reason (probably because I think of medicine as a complicated thing), I thought the MLA code of ethics would be longer; more complex. But, it is short and straightforward. The “Code of Ethics Defined” link provides a deeper insight to the terminology used within the MLA ethical code – I found this extremely useful as I am not very familiar with ethical medical terms; it also translates the code into concrete expectations of its members. Frankly, the MLA code of ethics is pretty standard – a nice mix of medical ethical codes and the Library Bill of Rights.
Times Are (Still) A-Changin' for the Librarian:
As Kathy Clair pointed out, over ten years ago Abbott informed us that our profession (not semi-profession, thank you) was rapidly changing and we better hold on. It was a time when the production of electronic information was put into the hands of the public, and also a time when our profession was no longer as straightforward as the dentist's next door. There was a time when a library was filled with paper and books and we knew exactly how to find what was requested. In fact, you had to ask the librarian for help searching for more complex materials, like our dear friend Cookie Monster:
Although we'll probably refrain from offering cookies in the library (even though my dentist offers them in the lobby -- job security?), we do offer new ways of obtaining information outside of the physical book. Although Abbott suggests that these cultural forces are creating opportunities for those skilled outside of the library profession, in the areas of "audiovisual" and computer technologies, to swoop in and take our jobs, I look at it as an opportunity to beef up our skill sets as librarians. You see it in library MLS programs today, with more focus being placed on the technical side of things. At the end of the day, we are still providing information and navigating those technical waters so our patrons can easily find what they are looking for. We must be familiar with various technologies and digital tools in order to fulfill our responsibilities as librarians as laid out in the ALA Bill of Rights. If I were Cookie Monster's librarian, I wouldn't become frustrated that I couldn't provide a cookie, I would simply print him out a map so he can get to the nearest bakery. (Or is there an app for that?)
Since I'm interested in museum work I found the American Association of Museums Code of Ethics:
I think AAM neatly outlines what I was trying to explain above in regard to libraries -- at the end of the day we are still doing our absolute best to help the patron find information in a changing environment and it's important to keep these codes and responsibilities in mind: "Ethical codes evolve in response to changing conditions, values, and ideas. A professional code of ethics must, therefore, be periodically updated. It must also rest upon widely shared values. Although the operating environment of museums grows more complex each year, the root value for museums, the tie that connects all of us together despite our diversity, is the commitment to serving people, both present and future generations."
State of the Profession
Whoa, the Abbott article was written more than 10 years ago, but how prophetic! There are too many "truths" to address in this blog entry, but two that affect my public library world are the following:
1) As a profession, we embrace generalists and a federated structure. I LOVE the fact that my MLS colleagues have such diverse educational and professional histories. When hiring at all levels in my own library, I think it's wonderful to have a rich tapestry of backgrounds. Everyone brings a unique skill set to the table.
2) Librarians need to embrace change and deal with it; for example, the expanding visual culture, increasing technology and those who use it.
Regarding the ALA Code of Ethics and the Library Bill of Rights, I am always amazed by the profound effect of the "tweaking" of a couple words on the intent of the document. If you haven't taken the SLIS Intellectual Freedom class, I highly recommend it. It was fascinating to study the evolution of the ALA's philosophical statements.
I looked at the "Ethics Statement for Public Library Trustees" in Illinois from the Trustee Facts File:
Trustees in the capacity of trust upon them,shall observe ethical standards with absolute truth, integrity and honor.
Trustees must avoid situations in which personal interests might be served or financial benefits gained at the expense of library users, colleagues, or the situation.
It is incumbent upon any trustee to disqualify himself/herself immediately whenever the appearance or a conflict ofinterest exists.
Trustees must distinguish clearly in their actions and statements between their personal philosophies and
attitudes and those of the institution,acknowledging the formal position ofthe board even if they personally disagree.
A trustee must respect the confidential nature of library business while being aware of and in compliance with applicable laws governing freedom of information.
Trustees must be prepared to support to the fullest the efforts of librarians in resisting censorship of library materials by groups or individuals.
Trustees who accept library board responsibilities are expected to perform all of the functions of library trustees.
Although this statement appears in our library's board bylaws, we've had a recent incident (see my "Challenged Book Report") where a trustee seems to have "forgotten" it.
1) As a profession, we embrace generalists and a federated structure. I LOVE the fact that my MLS colleagues have such diverse educational and professional histories. When hiring at all levels in my own library, I think it's wonderful to have a rich tapestry of backgrounds. Everyone brings a unique skill set to the table.
2) Librarians need to embrace change and deal with it; for example, the expanding visual culture, increasing technology and those who use it.
Regarding the ALA Code of Ethics and the Library Bill of Rights, I am always amazed by the profound effect of the "tweaking" of a couple words on the intent of the document. If you haven't taken the SLIS Intellectual Freedom class, I highly recommend it. It was fascinating to study the evolution of the ALA's philosophical statements.
I looked at the "Ethics Statement for Public Library Trustees" in Illinois from the Trustee Facts File:
Trustees in the capacity of trust upon them,shall observe ethical standards with absolute truth, integrity and honor.
Trustees must avoid situations in which personal interests might be served or financial benefits gained at the expense of library users, colleagues, or the situation.
It is incumbent upon any trustee to disqualify himself/herself immediately whenever the appearance or a conflict ofinterest exists.
Trustees must distinguish clearly in their actions and statements between their personal philosophies and
attitudes and those of the institution,acknowledging the formal position ofthe board even if they personally disagree.
A trustee must respect the confidential nature of library business while being aware of and in compliance with applicable laws governing freedom of information.
Trustees must be prepared to support to the fullest the efforts of librarians in resisting censorship of library materials by groups or individuals.
Trustees who accept library board responsibilities are expected to perform all of the functions of library trustees.
Although this statement appears in our library's board bylaws, we've had a recent incident (see my "Challenged Book Report") where a trustee seems to have "forgotten" it.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Week 5
I found the Code of Ethics for the Wisconsin PTA organization.
A PTA Code of Ethics
Adapted from the Wisconsin PTA website, author unknown
• As a PTA volunteer, I realize that I am subject to a code of ethics similar to that which binds the professional in the field in which I work. Like them, I assume certain responsibilities and expect to account for what I do in terms of what I am expected to do:
•I will keep confidential matters confidential.
• I interpret "volunteer" to mean that I have agreed to work without compensation in money, but having been accepted as a worker, I expect to do my work according to standards, as the paid staff expect to do their work.
•I promise to take to my work an attitude of open‐mindedness; to be willing to be trained for it; to bring to it interest and attention.
• I realize that I may have assets that my co‐volunteers may not have and that I shall use these to enrich the project at which we are working together.
• I realize also that I may lack assets that my co‐volunteers have, but I will not let this make me feel inadequate but endeavor to assist in developing teamwork.
•I plan to find out how I can best serve the activity for which I have volunteered, and to offer as much as I am sure I can give, but no more.
• I realize that I must live up to my promise and therefore, will be careful that my agreement is so simple and clear that it cannot be misunderstood.
• I believe that my attitude toward volunteer work should be professional. I believe that I have an obligation to my work, to those who direct it, to my colleagues, to those whom it is done, and to the public.
http://www.wisconsinpta.org/pages/Codeofethics.cfm
I think that its a great idea to have a code of ethics for the PTA as there are some who join it just for the publicity and social factor. These volunteers need to realize that the schools really do need their help and if they are going to join, they will have to do the work that is needed to get done.
A PTA Code of Ethics
Adapted from the Wisconsin PTA website, author unknown
• As a PTA volunteer, I realize that I am subject to a code of ethics similar to that which binds the professional in the field in which I work. Like them, I assume certain responsibilities and expect to account for what I do in terms of what I am expected to do:
•I will keep confidential matters confidential.
• I interpret "volunteer" to mean that I have agreed to work without compensation in money, but having been accepted as a worker, I expect to do my work according to standards, as the paid staff expect to do their work.
•I promise to take to my work an attitude of open‐mindedness; to be willing to be trained for it; to bring to it interest and attention.
• I realize that I may have assets that my co‐volunteers may not have and that I shall use these to enrich the project at which we are working together.
• I realize also that I may lack assets that my co‐volunteers have, but I will not let this make me feel inadequate but endeavor to assist in developing teamwork.
•I plan to find out how I can best serve the activity for which I have volunteered, and to offer as much as I am sure I can give, but no more.
• I realize that I must live up to my promise and therefore, will be careful that my agreement is so simple and clear that it cannot be misunderstood.
• I believe that my attitude toward volunteer work should be professional. I believe that I have an obligation to my work, to those who direct it, to my colleagues, to those whom it is done, and to the public.
http://www.wisconsinpta.org/pages/Codeofethics.cfm
I think that its a great idea to have a code of ethics for the PTA as there are some who join it just for the publicity and social factor. These volunteers need to realize that the schools really do need their help and if they are going to join, they will have to do the work that is needed to get done.
State of the Profession: Codes, Guidelines and Governing Bodies
Similar to copyright, the Library Bill of Rights and ALA Code of Ethics are not unfamiliar to me. Even though I've read these documents dozens of times, I am always struck by how these simple statements are so much easier to say than to do. Sure, we can have Right VI memorized. ("Libraries which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they serve should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals or groups requesting their use") But what happens when the KKK wants to use the library meeting room? Regardless of what I might think, the Bill of Rights says I must give the KKK the same access to library space as the PTO.
As far as other code of ethics/professional guidelines, I was hoping to find one for SLA (Special Libraries Association). However their website states that "SLA does not have its own Code of Ethics. The Association adheres to all good practices of information delivery. In general, members have felt that their organizational environments have set the work ethics by which they are guided rather than by a professional organization." (http://www.sla.org/content/membership/Genfaq.cfm) I found this interesting because I had (naively) assumed that every professional organization has some sort of guiding principles document. Anyhou, the SLA website did give links to other library/information organizations that do have such a document. The one I looked at was from AIIP (Association of Independent Information Professionals): http://www.aiip.org/CodeOfEthics. AIIP's Code of Ethical Business Practice seemed very similar to the documents from ALA.
As far as other code of ethics/professional guidelines, I was hoping to find one for SLA (Special Libraries Association). However their website states that "SLA does not have its own Code of Ethics. The Association adheres to all good practices of information delivery. In general, members have felt that their organizational environments have set the work ethics by which they are guided rather than by a professional organization." (http://www.sla.org/content/membership/Genfaq.cfm) I found this interesting because I had (naively) assumed that every professional organization has some sort of guiding principles document. Anyhou, the SLA website did give links to other library/information organizations that do have such a document. The one I looked at was from AIIP (Association of Independent Information Professionals): http://www.aiip.org/CodeOfEthics. AIIP's Code of Ethical Business Practice seemed very similar to the documents from ALA.
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