A summary : Research article

Avoiding Controversy: Academic Freedom and the Library Exhibit

Kandiuk, Mary. 2017. “Avoiding Controversy: Academic Freedom and the Library Exhibit.” Art Documentation: Bulletin of the Art Libraries Society of North America 36 (1): 91–107. doi:10.1086/691374.

Summary: The following article discusses the guidelines academic libraries have for art exhibit spaces and if such policies support the principles of intellectual freedom and freedom of expression. The study also focuses on how the Library Bill of Rights is included in such policies therefore library neutrality is discussed as well.

Problem: Libraries and librarians tend to avoid controversial topics in order to not offend certain parts of the community. This can result in restricting academic freedom.

Theory: According to the Library Bill of Rights, libraries must facilitate resources that present different views of current or past historical issues.

Methods: The following study examined various library exhibit policies. They were retrieved through web searches. A total of 77 policies were reviewed. Policies included common elements such as: purpose, criteria, academic freedom statement, disclaimer, and dispute resolution.

Research population: Academia

Findings: The results of the study showed a tendency to self- censor certain exhibitions in order to avoid conflict. Academic libraries wish to strive for neutrality, and this often results in restricting academic freedom.

Conclusion

   I believe academic libraries need to make more of an effort to display a wider variety of different points of view. It's important that controversial topics be discussed freely in a safe space, and this is where libraries come in, to provide such space. Universities have the task to present individuals with different ideas so it's members can learn to make informed decisions. Intellectual freedom should be at the forefront of all academic libraries instead of trying to remain neutral.