[Date Prev][Date Next][Thread Prev][Thread Next][Date Index][Thread Index]
identifying library censorship
I realize that this is just a wee bit off of the topic matter of this list,
but I thought the subscribers might be interested.
Also, I wanted to take this opportunity to mention that I have decided to
donate my 140,000 page FBI files collection to the National Security Archive
in Washington, DC for broad public use.
-----------------------------------------
LIBRARY CENSORSHIP: HOW TO IDENTIFY IT IN YOUR COMMUNITY
by Michael Ravnitzky , mikerav@ix.netcom.com
You can identify attempts to ban library books, and assess the success rate
of those attempts, by requesting under state data access laws:
the completed forms for reconsideration of library materials, along with the
final determination associated with each form.
Almost all libraries maintain such forms as a way of administering
complaints about items on their shelves. Usually, such complaints, or
requests for reconsideration of library materials, are forwarded to a
library staff review committee.
Requesting these forms for the past couple of years will give you a good
sample look at the extent of book-banning and censorship efforts in your
community, at least with respect to the local library.
One would think that the libraries would be happy to cooperate in such a
laudible project by handing over what are usually considered public records
-- once the complainant name is redacted ---, but in my experience they
usually fight such requests for these records tooth and nail, every step of
the way.
Has anyone else done a similar project?
A posting from the Archives & Archivists LISTSERV List!
To subscribe or unsubscribe, send e-mail to listserv@listserv.muohio.edu
In body of message: SUB ARCHIVES firstname lastname
*or*: UNSUB ARCHIVES
To post a message, send e-mail to archives@listserv.muohio.edu
Or to do *anything* (and enjoy doing it!), use the web interface at
http://listserv.muohio.edu/archives/archives.html
Problems? Send e-mail to Robert F Schmidt <rschmidt@lib.muohio.edu>