90 min - Freedom to Think, Freedom to Read: A Joyful Exploration of Intellectual Freedom

This presentation will provide foundational knowledge as to why Intellectual Freedom is critical to librarianship and a cornerstone of the Library Profession. It will focus on providing knowledge that will allow library professionals to become confident and competent defenders of Intellectual Freedom. As a primer, the subtopics of Censorship, Challenged Materials, Academic Freedom, and Collection Development will be covered. This program will answer the question, Why is intellectual freedom important to the profession and a free society?

Speakers:

Elly Brinkley, Legal Fellow, U.S. Free Expression Programs, PEN America

 

Dr. Bryan Cooper, Associate Dean for Engagement & Innovation, University Libraries, Florida International University

 

Allison Grubbs, FLA President-elect and Broward County Library Director

 

Maria O’Brien, FAME IFC Chair

 

Aaron Terr, Director of Public Advocacy for FIRE