ABQLA and CFLA Endorse ALA Defence of Library Core Values

The Canadian Federation of Library Associations / Fédération canadienne des associations de bibliothèques (CFLA/FCAB) endorses the American Library Association (ALA) statement issued January 30, 2017 defending library core values and condemning recent events in their country. CFLA/FCAB champions values that include access to information, privacy, democracy, equity, diversity and inclusion, intellectual freedom, and social responsibility. Libraries are safe and inclusive spaces that build social capital and support discovery and creation. CFLA/FCAB and Canadian libraries stand together in unity with our American library colleagues in support of welcoming and inclusive communities.

The ABQLA, as a member of the Canadian Federation of Library Associations (CFLA/FCAB), endorses these statements in support of a fair and just society. In recent years, there has been a growing global trend away from the core values and beliefs that are held dear by our members. By standing together with our Canadian, American, and other international colleagues, we are publicly reaffirming our core values and beliefs. Libraries encourage and facilitate intellectual freedom, an individual’s right to self-expression, access to information and learning, diversity, equality, inclusion, and community. The aim is to create an environment that is safe from fear of persecution and that is open to all, regardless of age, race, gender, orientation, religion, culture, nationality, or background.