Intellectual Freedom
The OLC actively supports intellectual freedom—the rights of library users to read, seek information, and speak freely as guaranteed by the First Amendment. Intellectual freedom is a core value of the library profession, and a basic right in our democratic society.
OLC’s Intellectual Freedom Committee Roster
Unite Against Book Bans Campaign
United Against Book Bans is a national initiative to empower readers everywhere to stand together in the fight against censorship.
Top Ten Most Challenged Books
Every year, the American Library Association’s Office for Intellectual Freedom (OIF) compiles a list of the Top Ten Most Challenged Books. The lists are based on information from media stories and voluntary challenge reports sent to OIF from communities across the United States.
“What the I.F.” Toolkits
The OLC’s Intellectual Freedom Committee developed a series of toolkits to help library staff identify and manage intellectual freedom issues. The toolkits include PowerPoint presentations, handouts, important links, discussion questions and more.
Privacy Awareness Toolkit
- PowerPoint Presentation (PPT file)
- Computer and WiFi Privacy (PDF)
- Privacy Discussion Questions (PDF)
- Privacy Links (PDF)
Self-Censorship Toolkit
- PowerPoint Presentation (PPT file)
- Collection Development (PDF)
- Request for Reconsideration (PDF)
- Sources and Important Links (PDF)
Diversity Toolkit
- PowerPoint Slide Deck (PDF)
- Helpful Links (PDF)
- Terms and Glossary (PDF)
- Gender Unicorn (PDF)
