The New Jersey Library Association (NJLA), the New Jersey Association of School Librarians (NJASL), and the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) have watched with concern as more and more systematic attempts at censorship and repression take place in New Jersey's schools and libraries. And all over the country. Many of these attacks target materials and programs that address race, racism, sexual orientation, and gender identity and expression. School, public and academic library staff in New Jersey are subject to defamation, harassment and threats at public school board meetings, public library board meetings, social media and public media. Their professionalism, honor, work ethics and performance are being questioned, judged and vilified.
The signatories of this statement condemn these attacks. We strongly support the Library Bill of Rights and the Freedom of Reading Statement, first published by the American Library Association in 1953. We respect and recognize New Jersey's anti-discrimination laws and refuse to participate in efforts to weaponize information to discriminate against protected groups. The Library provides access to books and other library resources and services for the interest, information, education, and enlightenment of all people within the communities we serve. They do not exclude material because of its source, background, or views of those who contributed to its creation. The library does not discriminate against any group. A healthy democracy has many voices and recognizes that free access to trustworthy information is a cornerstone of keeping us all safe, healthy and informed about the world around us.
Library staff are trained to manage comprehensively designed collections. NJASL's job description states the duties of a school librarian:
- We select, purchase and process new materials to ensure a current and balanced collection. Represent diverse perspectives according to district material selection policy
- Continuously evaluate library resources Regarding curriculum requirements, accuracy, and variety.and community interest, removing items that do not meet established criteria; Ensures that your collections remain current, relevant and in good condition
Information service providers have an ethical responsibility to adhere to the principles of intellectual freedom and the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. Through careful consideration and rigorous training, librarians and library staff are equipped with the ability to make selection decisions that represent a balance in the scope of knowledge.
We value the rights and responsibilities of parents and guardians to guide their children's reading choices. These rights must not interfere with the rights of others to read or view material of their choice. As parents, educators, administrators, and school board members, we stand united against the biased and politically motivated culture wars that target education, access to information, and the right to read.
We reaffirm our commitment to community: the right to be who you are and to see yourself represented in books, regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, or religion.
The New Jersey Library Association, New Jersey School Librarians Association, and New Jersey Education Association have come together to support the freedom of reading. Additionally, these organizations provide unwavering support to New Jersey's library staff, community members, and students who demonstrate courage every day as advocates for everyone's right to read.
signatory:
New Jersey Education Association
New Jersey Library Association
New Jersey School Library Association