LIT 247
September 13, 2004

Library Bill of Rights

The document, which the American Library Association has provided as a basis for public services policies, is the Library Bill of Rights. This document is compiled of six points. It serves as a guideline for each library to render accurate public service. Each library has the responbility to develop the document to meet the need of its community or customers. Due to the varieties and diversity, which compile individual libraries, public service and material have to be curtailed and adapted to fit each library.
After reviewing the document in the textbook on page 5 and examining each point individually, the one I focus on the most is the first point, number one, which states that books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.
Throughout history and the origin of the library, its design has been to provide material and public service to its customers. This means that there are not exclusive groups being rendered services. It is a key element to remember that every customer who comes to the library comes in two capacity seekers and searchers. What they are seeking or searching depends upon their individual’s need. Some customers may come seeking entertainment. Some customers come searching for knowledge and assignment completion. Some customers are seeking solitude from the outside world. Whatever the customer is seeking or searching, the library should be able to accommodate each individual’s request. I know this is not possible all the time. All library’s books and other resources such as non-print, print, CD’s, periodicals etc. should reflect the diversity of its customers. In order to enlighten and interest the customer, information needs to be of a vast scope. If the library excludes material based on the origin, background, then it is contradicting the policies in which it is built and established.
The Fort Valley State University H.A.Hunt Memorial Library follows the policy outlined by the American