OPINION: What librarians do and why it’s important

Librarians are getting a lot of attention both in Alaska and nationwide these days. In light of the recent controversies surrounding our chosen profession, and as Alaska library directors and leaders spread across the entire state, we think it is important to clarify what we do, why we do it and why it is essential to the continued integrity of our democracy.

The First Amendment, the very first point of clarification that our Founding Fathers made after writing the Constitution, is that “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press.” Freedom to speak, think and read are essential rights that we enjoy as Americans. Since the inception of the first free, modern public library in 1833, libraries have been flagship institutions across the country. We have provided free access to books and information resources for all, without censorship.

Every public library serves the diversity that exists across the community. This includes the many people from different racial and cultural backgrounds, religions, ages, socio-economic backgrounds, and of course political viewpoints. It is the right of every person in our country to think critically for themselves, voice their opinions, and be empowered to access the information and reading materials they need to do this. Librarians help guide people on this journey of finding literature and quality information resources, but we do not tell people what to think or read. Intellectual freedom is something that people living in autocratic countries around the world do not have, and we must always protect and value this right.

In light of the fact that we serve all ages and demographics, most public libraries require parental permission in order for a child to get a library card. Not all books in the library are appropriate for all people. We help guide children and adults toward appropriate books, but we do not censor or limit access. Parents have a sacred job in raising their children with the values that matter to their own families. We encourage parents to actively participate in their children’s visits to the library and to pay close attention to what they are reading and accessing online. We will not, however, limit access to a book because one group within the community finds it offensive. Remember — we serve everyone.

This commentary was written by Alaska library directors:

Theresa Quiner, MLS, Kuskokwim Consortium Library

Pat Tully, MLS, Ketchikan Public Library

Virginia McClure, MLS, Anchorage Public Library

Jessica Ieremia, MLS, Sitka Public Library

David Berry, MLS, Homer Public Library

Karen Kresh, MLIS, Unalaska Public Library

Laurie Madsen, MLS, Kodiak Public Library

Geraldine de Rooy, MLIS, Cordova Public Library

This letter reflects the authors’ own views as library professionals and not that of their employers.

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