Intellectual Freedom
The BRTC library is committed to pursuing and upholding the principles of intellectual freedom for its students and faculty. These rights have been thoroughly discussed and endorsed by library professionals. To read more about these principles and values, start with these founding documents. (ALA-Library Bill of Rights)
The BRTC library is committed to promoting and facilitating the free flow of and the free access to materials that express varying viewpoints on particular disciplines and subjects germane to course offerings or to topics of general education interests. Exposure to opposing or differing viewpoints is essential for the development of critical thinking skills and for the kind of broad knowledge base characteristic of a higher education.
The BRTC library also supports the freedom to discuss differing or opposing viewpoints, in its provided study spaces, without fear of censorship or academic repercussions. In keeping with principles of civility, we do insist that all discussions be conducted respectfully and we reserve the right to restrain offensive speech, whether in vernacular or meaning.
Our commitment to these values is reflected in the library’s selection policies, which are intended, in part, to safeguard against intentional or inadvertent censorship. The selection of any materials to be placed in the library’s holdings does not, therefore, constitute an endorsement of the ideas contained within them. Selections are based on academic quality and noted contribution to the field or subject of the material. A part of this “noted contribution” is the aim for diversity of thought for the sake of intellectual and academic freedom and a well-rounded presentation of ideas.