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The function of a library service is to provide free access to a diversity of information, opinion and ideas in a neutral and hospitable environment.
Selection, provision and access to library material is informed by legislation on terrorism, race relations, equality, local government, freedom of expression and human rights and access to information should not be restricted on any grounds except that of the law.
If publicly available material has not incurred legal penalties then it should not be excluded on moral, political, religious, or racial or gender grounds, to satisfy the demands of sectional interest.
Essex Libraries will:
Not restrict access except by standards that are endorsed by law. Items which have not incurred any penalty under the law will not be excluded merely because they are controversial but will be evaluated and judged according to the criteria listed in this document.
Avoid material which overtly promotes racism or prejudice against any social group. At the same time, we will assume that older works will reflect the morals and social attitudes of their day and that customers can make reasonable and critical evaluation of the views and opinions expressed.
However, within this context, the cultural, political and social climate is continually evolving, and the selection of stock and donations has become a complex responsibility. We will adhere to national guidelines such as CILIP's (Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals') statement on freedom of access to information.