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in support of free expression
The information presented here by the National
Coalition Against Censorship (NCAC) may be freely redistributed in its entirety,
provided that readers are informed that the information was obtained from
NCAC's World Wide Web site and that credit is given to the appropriate source
of whatever information is used. Permission is expressly granted for the information
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may not be sold for profit or incorporated in commercial documents without
the written permission from the National Coalition Against Censorship.
©Copyright 2005 NCAC
WEB DESIGN
Jeanne Criscola Criscola Design
free speech first amendment censorship
Action
School and Library Policies
Before A Challenge Arises:
Establish, in writing, a materials selection policy. It should specify the local criteria and procedures for selecting curricular and library materials, and all personnel should strictly adhere to the policy.
Establish, in writing, a clearly defined method for dealing with complaints. An important part of this policy statement should be formal review procedures for challenged material. A form should be used to identify the complainant's specific concerns; a broadbased committee that includes parents and other citizens as well as school or library personnel should be established to review challenged materials; and no restrictions should be placed on the use of the materials until the review process has been completed.
Establish continuing communication with the community. It should be kept informed about educational objectives, curricula and classroom and library programs. The community should especially be informed about policies and procedures for selecting instructional and library materials.
After A Challenge Has Been Made:
Attempt to resolve the challenge informally. Personnel should meet with the complainant to hear the specific recommendations and to explain how and why the challenged material was selected. If the complainant still wants to challenge the material, the official should provide the formal request-for-review form.
Take no action to review challenged materials until a written request for review is filed. The review procedures then should be started immediately and the school or library board informed of the details of the complainant.
Strictly adhere to established procedures throughout the review process. Personnel should be reminded that there are to be no restrictions on the use of the material until the entire review process is completed.
Inform the general public. Any review of challenged materials should be conducted openly, and the community should be able to know about the issue through local media or other communications.
Recommended by the Association
of American Publishers,
American Library Association,
International Reading Association,
and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.
Action Alerts
