ITEM NUMBER: 4.32
CHAPTER 4: Library
Statements
CODE: Policy
COMPUTER ID: LS-ST-3
Title: Freedom to View
Effective Date: 11-24-86
Authorized By: Library Board of Trustees
Date of Last Review: 7-2013
FREEDOM TO VIEW STATEMENT
The FREEDOM TO VIEW, along with the freedom to speak, to hear, and to read, is
protected by the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States. In a free
society, there is no place for censorship of any medium of expression. Therefore these
principles are affirmed:
1. To provide the broadest access to film, video, and other audiovisual materials
because they are a means for the communication of ideas. Liberty of circulation is
essential to insure the constitutional guarantees of freedom of expression.
2. To protect the confidentiality of all individuals and institutions using film, video, and
other audiovisual materials.
3. To provide film, video, and other audiovisual materials which represent a diversity of
views and expression. Selection of a work does not constitute or imply agreement
with or approval of the content.
4. To provide a diversity of viewpoints without the constraint of labeling or prejudging
film, video, or other audiovisual materials on the basis of the moral, religious, or
political beliefs of the producer or filmmaker or on the basis of controversial content.
5. To contest vigorously, by all lawful means, every encroachment upon the public's
freedom to view.
This statement was originally drafted by the Freedom to View Committee of the American
Film and Video Association (formerly the Educational Film Library Association) and was
adopted by the AFVA Board of Directors in February 1979. This statement was updated
and approved by the AFVA Board of Directors in 1989.
Endorsed by the ALA Council January 10, 1990