In order for parents to want their children to attend a “good school” it must
adhere to certain standards and expectations. Some administrators would
simply comply with a parent’s request in order to avoid any further
conflict or complaints. This week readings explain the differences
between censorship and selection which is an important process in the
library. So, this brings us to our discussion topic for this week:
Ground Rules:
•Please answer 2 questions. Your choice on which 2!
•Please
respond to the person who comments before you and immediately after
you. ( So, the 1st person to post only has to comment once.)
Option 1.) In
“Judy Blume Talks about Censorship” she writes, “It is the books that
will never be written. The books that will never be read. And all due to
the fear of censorship” (p.1). Should fear of censorship hinder one’s
ability to share knowledge with others? How would censorship, if at all, effect
or impact our teaching in our school libraries?
Option 2.) In “Not Censorship But Selection”
Lester Asheim writes, “If we have an almost no evidence that books are
harmful, we have less that they are not, and it’s quite understandable
that those who favor censorship should advocate wariness against
materials which may be harmful” (p.3). As a school librarian what subjects/topics do you anticipate that censorship limits your school library's resources for teaching and learning?
3.)In “Stand Up!-Defending Teens Rights To
Read At West Bend Community Memorial Library” Kristin Pekoll writes,
“…the library collection should reflect our “conservative community
standards” and not national liberal organizations” (p.284). As a
teacher/librarian should we uphold “conservative community standards”
even if it doesn’t contribute to student’s academic achievement?
Melissa Robles & Amy Sanchez
Great questions Melissa and Amy!
ReplyDeleteIn response to option 2 I already know that there will be many topics that will be limited by censorship in the school library. Unfortunately in Alabama, and apparently in Texas as well, the topic of the human body and reproduction seems to be “taboo” as far as elementary schools are concerned (thanks for the great word Cristofer!). Judy Blume said it better than I could ever hope to:
“Today, it's not only language and sexuality (the usual reasons given for banning my books) that will land a book on the censors' hit list. It's Satanism, New Age-ism and a hundred other isms, some of which would make you laugh if the implications weren't so serious. Books that make kids laugh often come under suspicion; so do books that encourage kids to think, or question authority; books that don't hit the reader over the head with moral lessons are considered dangerous.”
These will be the subjects I will find myself under pressure to not include in my selections.
In response to option 3, if we support the ideas that are written in “The Freedom to Read Statement” we must not allow one group in our community dictate what is to be available in our libraries. As the sixth proposition states, “It is the responsibility of …librarians, as guardians of the people's freedom to read, to contest encroachments upon that freedom by individuals or groups seeking to impose their own standards or tastes upon the community at large.” This statement is just as true now as it was in 1953 when the ALA first wrote it. It came to me as I was writing this that the old saying “the more things change the more they stay the same” is so true, I mean, wow, that statement was written 52 years ago and when I read through it the first time, I had no idea that they were referring to events that occurred so long ago. During this time many Americans, encouraged by Senator Joseph McCarthy, hunted down pro-Communist books to burn. Condemning these activities and the red scare, President Dwight Eisenhower gave us this powerful reminder. "[We must] not try to conceal the thinking of our own people," he said. "They are part of America." I think his reminder still holds true today.
What you said is so true, that something written 52 years ago can still hold true today. That also includes our founding fathers and what they wrote hundreds of years ago about the freedom of speech and press. It is amazing how some individuals are able to have the foresight of what could happen and write words to try and protect freedoms.
DeleteI agree that the topic of the human body and reproduction will continue to be "taboo" at the elementary level.
DeleteThat is amazing how something said so long ago still has a profound impact on society even after 52 years.
I love the quote from author Laurie Halse Anderson: "Censorship is the child of fear and the father of ignorance. "
DeleteThat is an excellent quote that goes along with our topic. Unfortunately, I can see how it can be true. I know the fear of censorship can impact our collections, but we shouldn't allow it to affect our learning.
DeleteAmy et al,
DeleteDid you ever envision librarians as folks who were freedom protectors? If so, how did you learn this? (I didn't know it until I finally took a c-dev't class).
Honestly, no I never thought about it until this course. Now that I am aware I definitely can see how important it is and how deep this issue goes. A lot of people don't understand how significant something is until they have to deal with it personally and that is what I am learning everyday in this class.
DeleteYeah, I know what you mean. Founding Fathers and Constitution Rights make it pretty "deep," as you say, Amy.
DeleteJMF -- it never entered my mind when I took this job that I was a freedom protector. Before I became a librarian, I had a very limited view of what librarians did. It didn't dawn on me everything the profession entails and how important it is until this class has brought up some very important concepts. I feel like I may have done a disservice to my students in my first year as a librarian by not acknowledging this fact and incorporating it into my selection process and curriculum. I will work to remedy this from here on out.
DeleteLana,
DeleteYou are brave to say these things - and to do this kind of reflection. But, I wonder if the best leaders say this about their first year (or more!) on the job. I suspect most do, if they have any kind of humility! :)
Response #1: We are training the next generation to become discerning thinkers and to be able to use information to make wise decisions. I liked how she spoke of fear being contagious. It shouldn’t hinder our ability to share knowledge with others, but it does. It’s human nature to avoid anything unpleasant, whether it is physical or emotional. The foundation of censorship is fear. I must keep my fear in check and know how to decipher between censorship and appropriate selection criteria. I realize that censorship can strike at the heart of our curriculum. What kind of society would we be if there was only one socially acceptable thought or ideology? (Anyone thinking “faction before blood") Educated choices comes from knowing all the information. We would have no room for innovation or critical thinking in our classrooms if we allow censorship ran rampant.
ReplyDeleteResponse #3: I am a teacher/librarian in a conservative school. I have to cater to my community members, but also support intellectual freedom at the same time. It's a highwire act. Parents pay for their children to attend my school because they believe in the mission and ideas of this institution. Does this change how I implement intellectual freedom? If I am being honest, yes. It is possible that academic achievement is being hampered, but I don’t see that scenario playing out in my specific situation. In fact, I feel my students are receiving an outstanding education that is preparing them for college and to make judgements for themselves. I don’t carry the Harry Potter series, yet I see many of my fourth graders bringing their own copy of the series to my library and reading. I enjoy discussing these books with them and hearing their insights. I even tell them that I’ve read the books and I think they are a great story. I do try to test my limits, but I feel I have to pick my battles and be very careful. Anyone else feel that way?
I like how you said, "We would have no room for innovation or critical thinking in our classroom if we allow censorship to run rampant." We must continuously make educated choices based on what is best for our patrons. Keeping in mind the need to better serve your students can cause us to go against our own beliefs.
DeleteI can see how working at a private school can set limits on the variety of your collection. I'm glad you are able to relate to the material that students are reading even if it is not being offered in your library.
At my campus, the final decision on book purchases is made by the principal. If there is even the slightest hint of a parental complaint coming with the title, it will not be purchased.
Sorry - I replied in the wrong place!! :)
DeleteLana, I can see how working at a library in a private school would definitely change the situation a bit! In your situation it is more like a private library where the owners get to pick and choose what titles they want on the shelves. I'm sure that they listen to your input as a professional, but at the end of the day they call the shots. There are pros and cons to every situation. Do you feel more comfortable or less with those decisions ultimately taken out of your hands?
In my county, the school librarian makes the recommendations as to what should be purchased based on our selection criteria, but the principal on each campus has the final approval for all library purchases, so if they don't want to deal with parents on certain titles they don't approve them. In some ways this is a relief because then I can say to myself "Yes - I recommended it and I told my principal why we should have it in our collection, but man, am I glad she said no!"
I would be very sad if I worked at a library where Harry Potter was not allowed on the shelves. My own child started reading the series when she was in third grade, she was a very early reader, she also read The Hobbit, and The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe that year, and by the sounds of it you probably have a lot of those in your school. Even at my Title I school, with 70% being free or reduced lunch, in Alabama, I have had children read the series every year - I have been in third grade (we don't have many early readers, but they do show up every once in a while!), sixth grade, and now I'm in fifth. The only time that I didn't have them on the shelves in my classroom was when I taught Kindergarten! :)
Lana,
DeleteI'll confess my ignorance here... but are there private school associations within AASL? I think it would be interesting (and perhaps encouraging to you) to see how other private school librarians balance the tight rope - and if an organization isn't already established like that, you should start one. Even within TLA!
I also wonder if it would be an interesting exercise to take a collection advisory group (principal/teachers/students) through a study on how Jesus responded to questions. After that kind of study, could the advisory group - guided with the librarian use that approach (embracing questions - and not providing "easy" answers that "went along" with the status quo) help define what librarianship looks like in Protestant schools? [I've been at a divergent thinking workshop all day, so you might think that my divergent thinking is SUPER outside the box here] ;)
Lana,
DeleteI like how you state "Educated choices come from knowing all the information". This precisely highlights what our job will entail; to provide materials in order for our patrons to be able to have a variety of resources to chose from, in order to create those great learning opportunities.
Yes, as human beings, it will always be in our DNA to have the fear of the unknown in the back of our head, but as more and more time passes by, I learn to realize that we cannot live in fear, instead, we must trust that by following the policies the govern our profession, we will not only be doing what is just and right, but we will be educating the next generation of critical thinkers and problem solvers.
JMF -- In April I am attending the AISL conference in Tampa, Florida. We are touring several schools and I think this may be a question I ask my colleagues at these schools. Your exercise would be a very interesting exercise. I bet I would uncover some unexpected results.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteLana, last night I was on Zombie mode when I posted my reply to your post and this morning I had a horrible feeling and I told myself, it has to be your post....so from work I opened up the blog and then I see typos all over the place...I tried to correct it from work, but I couldn't post b/c i had to select a user and I am not allowed to use personal email settings from work....any-who....the last part of my post should read.."as more time passes by, I have realized that we cannot live in fear, instead, we must trust that by following the policies that govern our profession.....sorry for the typos.....i was extremely tired and my mind was wondering.....
DeleteYilsa DLS
I think another "test" I'd like to do in schools that ban Harry Potter for religious reasons, is to have a "Finding Jesus in HP" bookclub for parents. One of our recent readings talked about dialogue (and one of you even pointed this out on a recent forum) - and I can't think of a better way to educate parents on what the books have to offer. Here's to proactive not reactive dialogue :)
DeleteOption 1.) In “Judy Blume Talks about Censorship” Blume writes, “It is the books that will never be written. The books that will never be read. And all due to the fear of censorship” (p.1). Should fear of censorship hinder one’s ability to share knowledge with others? How would censorship, if at all, effect or impact our teaching in our school libraries?
ReplyDeleteNo, it should not hinder our ability to share knowledge with others, because as soon to be librarians, our job will rely around upholding the Intellectual Freedom Policy and the Library Bill of Rights in our schools. Although this is what our livelihood will depend on, it does not mean that as human beings, we will not be emotionally affected if and when someone questions books that we have chosen to include in our collection. In my opinion, censorship in school libraries could have devastating effects on society by limiting the wealth of knowledge that would be available to our students/community. As you know, it is our goal to be able to have on hand, collections that include a variety of information on different topics, in order for our students to be able to draw their own conclusions on particular subject matter. Without proper exposure to different viewpoints or information, students cannot truly draw their own conclusions on particular subject matter and will be left to rely solely on the viewpoints of people that they interact with, which may end up being completely one sided. :/
3.) In “Stand Up!-Defending Teens Rights To Read At West Bend Community Memorial Library” Kristin Pekoll writes, “…the library collection should reflect our “conservative community standards” and not national liberal organizations” (p.284). As a teacher/librarian should we uphold “conservative community standards” even if it doesn’t contribute to student’s academic achievement?
I will answer by assuming this applies to collection development- By upholding conservative community standards we would be in essence “censoring”. It is our duty to provide a diverse collection of material that depicts differing points of views, especially topics which may be controversial. This of course, opens up a big old can of worms (questions), like -What are conservative community standards? The definition of conservative standards can differ between groups of people, and what may be considered strictly conservative to some, may be considered less conservative to others. So how could we possibly even begin to try and satisfy the “Conservative Community Standards”? I think that really and truly, it does not matter how hard you work at building your collection, we could spend hours and hours reading review after review, building our lists of books for purchase based on credible sources, with rationales, etc. and there will always be someone who will find something on our library shelf that they don’t agree with. It is our duty, to be able to provide a wide variety of informational resources on topics across the board, in order to enable our students to make their own personal decisions as to what they would like to read, whether it bear academic significance, or simply just for pure enjoyment.
Yilsa - you make some great points. I really like how you acknowledge that the definition of "conservative community standards" can differ between groups of people. That is so true. We as librarians will never be able to please everybody in our community. We just have to do our best to uphold intellectual freedom and allow our students to draw conclusions for themselves.
DeleteGreat ideas! I love your statement, "In my opinion, censorship in school libraries could have devastating effects on society by limiting the wealth of knowledge that would be available to our student/community." Students must have a choice and be exposed to information about different topics. We must not place a restriction on a topic if it is controversial. Should we go against it, we would be placing a limit on their learning and violating their right to Intellectual Freedom.
DeleteAbsolutely true! No matter how hard we try to please all our patrons, there will always be someone that will disagree with something in our collections.
Yisla,
DeleteIn your response to question#3, I agree that as librarians we can research, review and collaborate to do the best we can in building a diverse collection, but there will always be that "one" who is not satisfied. As the saying goes,"You can't always please everyone." Doesn't this apply to many aspects in our lives? As librarians we have the professional responsibility to be inclusive in our collections and have an open frame of mind. ALA’s Library Bill of Rights states that, “Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.”
Yilsa,
DeleteMy apologies on misspelling your name! :/
Sandra
Quest. 1
ReplyDeleteJudy Blume states that “censorship grows out of fear.” With so many controversial issues in today’s world, I can see where both teachers and librarians would have some reservations in censoring certain materials because they are afraid of the reaction of parents. I feel that censorship in schools can also leave students with unanswered questions. For example, what if a student wanted to learn about other religions and customs worldwide, but their religion doesn’t allow it? What if they wanted learn more about a certain period in history like the Holocaust or Civil Rights movement, but because of some unsettling content children are restricted? I feel this would be hindering a child’s ability to learn and grow about our world, and might grow up to be narrow-minded individuals. Blume also states that, “Book banning satisfies their (parent’s) need to feel in control of their children’s lives. They want to believe that if their children don’t read about it, their children won’t know about it.” As a parent of two teenage boys, I know that kids nowadays know a lot more than I did when I was their age. I was raised in a Hispanic culture and we didn’t talk about the “birds and the bees.” It was a topic that just wasn’t discussed, but I learned from sex education in schools and books. What if I didn’t have that?
We cannot shield children from everything in our world, but we can raise educated individuals that know the difference between what’s appropriate or not. I believe that schools should have materials available to students that prepares students for our world as it is today. Otherwise we will have children that are left in the dark with those unanswered questions, and perhaps maybe be misinformed.
Quest. 2
I’ve taught elementary for many years and have read numerous books that contain words like “stupid,” “idiot” and “gay.” The minute students hear these words they gasp and say, “Oh miss, that’s a bad word.” How many times has this happened to all of us? As teachers and librarians we consider reading and sharing these books anyway because of their content, but you will have some students that focus on those negative parts. In addition to “offensive language,” I find religious beliefs a sensitive topic with students. They have on occasion asked me about religion and others’ beliefs when they’ve read about it and I respond with facts, not my opinion. I also tell them to discuss the topic with their parents.
Of course we know that not all topics are suitable for every student and we as teachers and librarians can collaborate with parents to resolve any concerns or issues they might have. After all teachers have the right to teach, students have the right to learn and parents have the right to express their concerns.
In “Not Censorship but Selection,” Asheim states that “The aim of the selector is to promote reading, not to inhibit it; to multiply the points of view which will find expression, not limit them; to be a channel for communication, not a bar against it. The librarian is promoting the freedom to read by making as accessible as possible as many things as he can.”(7)
Sandra
Sandra,
DeleteYour response to #1 reminds me of my best high school friend who didn't know he was gay in elementary school - but sensed he was somehow different. His school librarian, he suspects, was the first person to know. He checked out a book about Michelangelo six weeks in a row. He didn't need that book from last week - because he could study the private domain of men from an artist's perspective.
After six weeks of continuous "checking out" Michelangelo's work, the librarian finally made my friend return the book. Anything THAT fascinating (she must've thought), MUST have something in it that SHE should investigate.
Young people find a way to learn about their curiosities. Why not have a library help facilitate their learning - in BALANCED ways with the best-of-the-best resources? Why leave Google the job of explaining the human body? Sex? Gender constructs? Abstinence? and so on? I'll take a school library - and send my own children to a school library EVERY TIME before they start the Google image search. Dear Goodness! :)
Yes there would be many unanswered questions if we did not offer a diverse selection of books with different points of view. What keeps popping up in my mind is that many times it is through the uncomfortable and controversial books or situations that the most learning comes from. Wouldn't it be such a disservice to our students if we had to remove all the Junie B. Jones books because of her two favorite words "dumb" and "stupid."
DeleteSandra,
DeleteExcellent ideas! I agree that censorship has the ability to limit a child's ability to learn. A child should not have restrictions placed on their learning because some of the content might be somewhat graphic.(of course at the appropriate age) I remember first learning about the Holocaust in middle school and it inspired me to read and learn more. I would never have had the opportunity to learn about this historical event had I not been able to check out books at the library.By offering a wide variety of topics in our collections, we will be helping to educate the future.
JMF, Melissa and Amy,
DeleteInteresting, JMF. I'm glad the library provided him with the answers to ease his curiosity. The library was definitely the place that facilitated my learning. Growing up, we didn't have the answers within our fingertips, but the library was the place I'd spent my summers, where many of my questions were answered.
Sandra,
DeleteI agree! It is extremely difficult when dealing with sensitive issues in the classroom. In particular religion. For instance, on Ash Wednesday, I had a student of mine tell another student during lunch that she could not eat the pepperoni pizza (meat) she had selected from the cafeteria, because if she ate it, she would go to hell. The cafeteria supervisors were freaking out and didn't know what to do and my student was in a panic because she was hungry, but was afraid to go to hell if she ate it...long story short, the supervisor told my student that she needed to make her choice on her own, and that not everyone's beliefs apply to everyone else. I almost feel back in my chair when I was told what happened because of the nature of the situation. I was put in a place where very thoughtful and selected words had to be used when addressing the situation, but even though I handled the situation like a champ, I was still on guard and feared the parent showing up in an uproar due to what had happened. With this being said and more and more situations like such occurring in my classroom, I look forward to our upcoming profession as librarians, a position that will allow us to be able to have resources that will provide our patrons with knowledge that they may seek in order to clarify or satisfy their curiosity. Information on topics which we may not be able to discuss in class as teachers with them, may be accessible to students via resources in the library.
Yilsa,
DeleteI absolutely agree, it is difficult to deal with sensitive issues in the classroom. Over the years I've had students that don't celebrate birthdays, holidays and do not recite the Pledge of Allegiance due to their religious beliefs, but out of respect, will stand. Other students have questioned this, and I usually talk to them about our First Amendment and recommend they look for a book that will answer their question. Since they are in elementary, I recommend them speak to their parents first and foremost.
Sandra
Option #1
ReplyDeleteThis question makes me think about what “tenure” used to mean in academic environments (both universities and public schools). After people were socialized into their educational environments (somewhere between 4-7 years), they were afforded tenure (job protection). This protection was given to folks who were good teachers (in public schools). At the university, in addition to teaching, folks were service minded and also were getting published. Tenure meant that after “playing it safe” for awhile… some people might call it being agreeable to “playing nice,” people could really start expressing their ideas without repercussions. This kept public schools – and universities – “safe” from censors… because the institution couldn’t fire you once you started saying what you thought (if you were holding back before).
My Ph.D. comes from an institution where for decades a president protected people who had “unpopular” and “controversial” research agendas and teaching approaches… one scholar who was Alfred Kinsey (a sex researcher). His legacy continues to lead scholars to conduct research on reproduction, gender, sexual health, and sex.
http://www.kinseyinstitute.org/about/mission.html
While I see the concern with “sharing” knowledge (and how that is hindered with censorship), I think more about how we take away our students’ ability to use resources to “create new knowledge.” If school library’s content area is “Information Literacy” – and our pedagogy-of-choice is “inquiry,” I think any form of censorship makes our students’ creation of knowledge problematic.
Option #2
Race
Religion
Gender
Sexual Identity / Preference
(Resources that help us explore our complex identities – It feels like a crime to withhold this opportunity to explore self and others in public schools!)
JMF,
DeleteGreat point! Ultimately, children's ability to have a choice of topics to create new knowledge will be impacted because of the fear of censorship. I can see how each of these topics can bring conflicting opinions from parents. We as future librarians will not be able to please everyone. However, we must keep in mind that we must not limit our collections because the topics are controversial.
JMF,
DeleteI agree, any form of censorship will hinder students from being able to create "new knowledge." Children should be able to learn about a wide variety of topics from different viewpoints. This preparation should be a part of their education. Experience with controversy is necessary for our children to be able learn how to form their own opinions on any given topic.
OK. So after my reply to Sandra I looked up the Junie B. Jones series and yes it is repeatedly challenged in our country and in 2004 it was on ALA's top ten frequently challenged books! Wow, now I'm really getting bothered. That it very sad.
ReplyDeleteJulie Marie, do you think tenure was a good or bad thing? In my opinion it has both sides of the coin. On one side, it is good because like you said professors would speak more their mind and in that case possibly be a little bit more liberal in their publications, work, etc. However, on the other side, I think it has a negative connotation because there have been a lot of teachers who have been able to stay in the field of education, because of their "tenure." Some of these teachers have refused to grow in their knowledge and stay stagnant in their teaching. This does a lot of harm to our students and because of that I feel tenure should be done away with all together.
ReplyDelete1.) In “Judy Blume Talks about Censorship” she writes, “It is the books that will never be written. The books that will never be read. And all due to the fear of censorship” (p.1). Should fear of censorship hinder one’s ability to share knowledge with others? How would censorship, if at all, effect or impact our teaching in our school libraries?
In an ideal world, no, I don't think fear of censorship should hinder one's ability to share knowledge with others. I mean is that not why we have first amendment, "Freedom of speech." Should censorship affect our teaching? Again, in an ideal world, no. However, unfortunately I am a realist and working in a private school. I agree with Lana that our parents feel entitled because they are "paying" for their child's education. And if there is something they don't like, they are going to make sure they're heard. Sometimes to no avail, but many times they will prevail. So, sometimes we have to be cautious in what we say/do in the library.
3) In “Stand Up!-Defending Teens Rights To Read At West Bend Community Memorial Library” Kristin Pekoll writes, “…the library collection should reflect our “conservative community standards” and not national liberal organizations” (p.284). As a teacher/librarian should we uphold “conservative community standards” even if it doesn’t contribute to student’s academic achievement?
Again this ties back with what I already said, but I feel that since I live in a conservative area, I sometimes do have to abide by their standards. I don't necessarily agree with them, but again because my "customers" want it done, chances are it will be done. My head librarian ultimately makes the final choices on many "questionable books." And unfortunately she usually sides on the cautious side for fear of being challenged by parents. It's sort of funny, but the other day a parent volunteer came in and said, "Oooh is this a new a book? It looks pretty good." Then I told her, "Unfortunately, that's a book we'll be giving away because of some questionable material." So, as you can see it's not that my entire community is conservative, but it is the conservative that is being heard.
Cristofer,
DeleteDefinitely a good thing. I think uninspired faculty isn't a problem with tenure, because slackers are in places where tenure Ian't granted. I would blame "no sabbatical" and bad leadership for tenured slackers. PS My ideas might not be popular at SHSU on this topic (I mean what untenured faculty ever blames administration, right?), so let's do our best to keep my thinking here between us.
In exchange, I promise to not share y'alls "dangerous" ideas about the freedom to read with your principals. Deal?!?
Ugh. Isn't not lan't...I'm trying to post from my cell while my mister watches the IU / Purdue game.
DeleteAlso, I think that all taxpayers think the same thing a about "paying" for students' public school education. Many challenges to PS library collections are from community members without children. They feel entitled as PAYERS.
DeleteCristofer,
DeleteWonderful ideas! Aah, if only we lived in an ideal world! The reality is that we don't and the fear of censorship can limit the wealth of knowledge that we want to share with our students. I can imagine how a parent must feel entitled to have a say so in what their child is learning since they are paying for their child's education. However, it is unfair to limit one's curiosity. We need our children to be educated for their future in the real world.
Cristofer,
DeleteGreat ideas, I wonder though, what did the parent say when they found out the book was going to be pulled? I agree in that if we are serving a conservative community we ought to serve that community and what if feels/thinks. But what about the minority in these communities? How are their voices heard? And vice versa, do you think in a liberal community a conservative minority would have a voice?
Option 1.)
ReplyDeleteI could say that fear of censorship shouldn't hinder our ability to share knowledge with others, but it does. We live in an age where information flows freely online and amongst ourselves, but in mediums that can be easily blocked or hindered. For instance, here at work we have access to the internet but not to certain sites or domains that are deemed inappropriate for students. Should I assign an essay for my classes that is to discuss gun laws and the issue of whether or not they should be banned, my students would be hard pressed to find a site that is not blocked due to the violent nature of gun websites. Students wishing to cite the NRA would not be able to due to the site being censored on school networks.
So what do I do? Should I change and alter the assignment? Should I provide a topic that is a little tamer and rather than have my freshman write about gun legislation, I have them write about school uniform policies? Obviously the answer is no, but I do have to make greater attempts in providing students with information that isn't censored so that they may write essays on gang violence, human trafficking, and gun laws. All the while wondering, will someone put a stop to this, will I be censored? Am I getting students the same information that they would get if the computers in the lab would not restrict their research? The answers are uncertain, but I know that if the information flowed freely, the ability to share what I wanted these writers to achieve would be much more authentic.
I feel that censorship would hinder our ability to teach in our libraries by not allowing us to create authentic collections that our communities need and also bring in a bias in our libraries that would constantly hinder our own ability to grow, develop and share our own personal information to a public that views us as a guide.
Option 2.)
I always believe that anything that challenges politics, religious beliefs or notions sexuality will cause uproar of sorts within our communities and in schools. When I was in high school (2003 or so) the biggest thing going around was the retelling of Sleeping Beauty told by Ann Rice. This day's 50 Shades of Grey. The library had five copies, all of which were checked out and there was a crazy waiting list. Naturally parents came to the school to protest and so did many of the teachers. The library held its own and the books were never removed from the shelves (though they were held behind the counter). Sex of course caused a big stir and that book was chock full of it. Many members of the school's community thought the book to be unnecessarily vulgar and extremely sexual for students and wanted it out. This always seems to be the case with the overly sexual, extremely political, or that challenge the notion of religion/belief of god.
It is in these subjects that I feel we will be the most hindered in developing and maintaining our collections. In my experience the most heated of arguments have derived from these three. All of which very personal to people and their daily lives. After all who would want their children reading books that shake the very foundation of the households they have spent years trying to build and sustain? Libraries will always be challenged, but it is in these three topics that I feel we will be challenged constantly.
I always forget about websites. I teach at a one to one campus, and there are certain search terms that are blocked. My favorite is socks. No one knows why, but the common assumption is because it is close to sex.
DeleteAnyway, I do feel that censorship inhibits our ability to develop our collections. I also believe that we are supposed to cater to our "clients," so if we are in a conservative area, I think we are more inclined to carry books that won't rock the boat. As I type this, I think of my uber-conservative cousin-in-law, who would likely ban everything I read. :)
I do think, however, there are some books school libraries, high school libraries included, shouldn't carry simply because of the potential parental outrage. The 50 Shades series falls in that category for me (and not just because they were poorly written tripe, in my opinion), same with Rice's Sleeping Beauty series. Those are clearly intended for adults, and the school doesn't need the bad publicity for having them. Just my two cents.
Mandy, you took the words out of my mouth in how I was planning to respond to Jimmy.
DeleteI also forget that many sites are "censored" and "blocked" from student use. However, I feels time goes by students will become even more savvy and be able to bypass the guarding of the sites. Our school just recently adopted a 1:1 initiative with chrome books for the 8th grade students. It was very successful and will be moving down to 7th grade next year and then 6th grade the year after that. I feel that this new technology can help a lot for our students, but at the same time, it will take more monitoring than ever for everyone involved. My second year teaching in middle school one of the students accessed pornographic sites, which resulted in him losing his technology privileges for the remainder of the school year. I know this might be the norm for most young adults to access these kind of sites, but there is a time and place for it and school is not the place.
Mandy, I agree with you completely that some books should not be allowed on the shelf of high school libraries and from what I've heard of "50 Shades" I feel this would be one of those books. I know the reading level might be fine, but at the same time it's the content that makes it inappropriate. It's like if we had "Playboy" magazines in the periodical section. Maybe, I'm being naive, but I feel we should do our best to allow our children to be young as long as they can be. I feel if we expose them too soon it can be harmful.
Exactly-let them be kids as long as they can! Plus, there are a ton of really great young adult books out there that they don't need these adult books just yet.
DeletePart of me agrees with both of you guys, but the other half screams damn the man! But ultimately I would agree and say what Mandy put so great, let them be kids as long as they can. Most of these books that cause a stir do only that and really dont offer anything to our students other than the fact that they can say they read a book that was adult.
DeleteI dont want to censor any students or prohibit them from having access to anything that will help them learn, I just hope I can do it effectively in the future.
The reality is libraries will always be challenged when it comes to these controversial issues, but we must not let it limit our collections.
DeleteEven though our campus computers have access to the Internet, there are several restrictions for certain search terms. Just last year, a website that had a popular math game teaching students multiplication facts was blocked. Apparently it had too many pop-up ads. No one took into consideration the number of students who benefited from practicing their multiplication facts. So sad!
Cristofer et al,
DeleteOh dear GOODNESS! Is online pornography really the norm for young adults today? Wow. I.am.shocked. And, perhaps a little naive in my sweater-set? ;)
3.)In “Stand Up!-Defending Teens Rights To Read At West Bend Community Memorial Library” Kristin Pekoll writes, “…the library collection should reflect our “conservative community standards” and not national liberal organizations” (p.284). As a teacher/librarian should we uphold “conservative community standards” even if it doesn’t contribute to student’s academic achievement?
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts on this question are this: you have to develop the library collection to meet the needs of the people your library serves. Being the open minded individual that I am, I sincerely hope that I am placed in a library that will allow me to add books to the collection that I wouldn't bat an eye at. If there was an interest in LGBT books in my school, I would want to be able to provide that. In a school like the one where I teach, we can carry books like that. However, those types of books would not fly. If you're in a conservative area, you have to take that into consideration. It's not about OUR personal belief system, it's about meeting the needs of the people we serve, and sometimes, the people we serve are a little backward.
Option 1.) In “Judy Blume Talks about Censorship” she writes, “It is the books that will never be written. The books that will never be read. And all due to the fear of censorship” (p.1). Should fear of censorship hinder one’s ability to share knowledge with others? How would censorship, if at all, effect or impact our teaching in our school libraries?
First, can I just say I loved this article?
Second, what have we come to as a society that we have to censor every darn thought that comes out of our head because we are worried how we will be perceived by the general public? She's right, though. We are getting to the point that there are books that won't be written, ideas that won't be shared because we are afraid of the backlash. That's one reason I read books that people have tried to ban: the people that wrote them weren't afraid of the possible consequences, they had something to convey, and they did it anyway. We shouldn't be afraid that others won't see things our way.
And, can I just say this: I am a parent, teacher, and future librarian, and it bothers the heck out of me that parents, instead of doing their job as parents, seek to ban books because they don't want their kids to read them. I know when my own children brought home books that sounded even remotely sketchy, I read them first to make sure it was ok. It's called being a parent. I know it "takes a village," but, seriously, it starts at home. *Stepping off the soap box.*
I really like what you have to say here. It truly is about meeting the needs of our students.Its not about us, its about them. Sometimes I wish more administrators felt that way. It would revolutionize the school system if everyone would think like that. Imagine the wondrous things we could do in the libraries if the focus was on the kids and not on what the parents and administration believes. I also like your prospective on how true parenting would change the constant attempts to ban books. I wonder if if parents were more involved in reading with their children if the attempts would really lessen though. Many parents have the opinion that if they feel their child should not read something, no child should read it
DeleteThere is that "all or none" mentality in censorship and some parents do believe that if their own child shouldn't read it than no one should and that is where it crosses that line infringing on another person's right to read it.
DeleteI get what you're saying with the all or none mentality, and that bothers me too. I guess this is because I would never presume to tell another parent what their child should read unless asked, in my real life, outside of school. I can already see that this is an area that may be a problem for me......
DeleteI agree, nor should you Mandy. As Amy says it is an infringment on the rights of others, but it is often the mentailty. We had a situation in my district a few years ago where one of the books used in the 7th grade lessons across the district was challenged. There were parents in only two of the middle schools that had a problem with the book, but it was banned from the whole district. It was a book that the kids at my school had really gotten into and loved. When the author came to our school for a visit, they had excellent questions prepared and you could tell they were passionate about what they read. It was really sad that the parents at another school took away this opportunity for our students where the parents had no concerns about the book. But it happens.
DeleteMandy, thank you for adding that last bit about parents. Growing up, my mother encouraged every kind of reading and didn’t really care about what I was reading. Most of the times I read stuff from the library that was appropriate and helped develop me as a reader, but often times I got my hands on the more adult material and was never told a word about it. On the other hand my father saw me reading a fantasy novel and chastised me about not being a man. One parent didn't care about what I read and the other didn't even bother to read The Lord of the Rings to know it wasn’t a "sissy" book, and just judged books based on the cover. Parents need to be involved and in the know; otherwise we're just protesting a bunch of books that we ourselves might enjoy and also not know what makes it so controversial.
DeleteExactly, James. I remember when my son was in second or third grade, and started reading the Series of Unfortunate Events books. When he was explaining them to me, I thought they sounded sketchy for his age, and checked them out myself. We read and talked about them together, and I think moments like those are what made him the reader and person he is today. The point is, as a parent, I educated myself. I didn't want to be like my parents, who pretty much didn't know what I was reading.
DeleteJasmine, we had an incident with The Perks of Being a Wallflower last year. I don't know too many specifics, as I wasn't on that team last year, but I do know that a parent had a problem with that particular book. Instead of coming to the teacher about it, or even administration, she blasted it all over social media. That's how it got back to the school. The administrators wanted to pull the book, but our librarians fought for it and it is still here.
Well said!
DeleteInstead of parents going out and banning books, be realistic. There are some issues our children might not be ready for, but its not okay to have everything mentioning that particular topic removed from the libraries shelves. I agree with you in your statement about the author's of banned books having something to say! I'm thankful they had the courage to put their ideas out there in the world.
James/Jimmy,
DeleteI'm *so* sorry that your dad wasn't cool with LOTR. It sounds like you read it anyway?!? It's good you had a balance, no?
It's interesting how some of our parents think that our reading titles should somehow related to our gender... I hear kids say all of the time, "I want a 'boy' book." Seriously, friend? Books have genders? I try to get them to see that they should read anything that interests them. Sometimes they'll respond, "Cool, Dr. French Frye... but where are the 'boy' books?" I'm not always as successful as I'd like - but I do try to put the message out there.
Oh I definitely read it and the entire trilogy just because he said no and the book was so amazing. It was great having a balance of the read whatever you want but don’t read whatever you want attitude in my home. It made me really question a lot of things that came my way and try to understand why my mother from Mexico wanted me to absorb everything under the sun and why my father from Vietnam tried to restrict me only to "man" texts and movies.
DeleteAt work I definitely try to send the message that there are no such things as gender books and encourage girls to read texts that they feel are boy books and vice versa. It's tough, I agree, but I definitely think it's a battle worth fighting.
Option 1.) In “Judy Blume Talks about Censorship” Blume writes, “It is the books that will never be written. The books that will never be read. And all due to the fear of censorship” (p.1). Should fear of censorship hinder one’s ability to share knowledge with others? How would censorship, if at all, affect or impact our teaching in our school libraries?
ReplyDeleteIn an Ideal world, no it should not. However the reality is that in situations where you may have to put your job on the line for a book or topic, we often lean toward letting it hinder us.
Option 2.) In “Not Censorship But Selection” Lester Asheim writes, “If we have an almost no evidence that books are harmful, we have less that they are not, and it’s quite understandable that those who favor censorship should advocate wariness against materials which may be harmful” (p.3). As a school librarian what subjects/topics do you anticipate that censorship limits your school library's resources for teaching and learning?\
I am certain there will be many topics that will garner censorship in a school library, however I feel that the most likely are: racism, violence, and sexuality.
As I have taught in title one school in which the majority of students are Hispanic and African American with less than 10% percent White, I feel that racism would be a serious concern. It would also mean that I would to be sure that my collection offers an abundance of authors that are from similar ethnic backgrounds and well as a diverse collection of authors. It should anyway, but even more so with this population. Violence in literature is often viewed the same as the same as in video games. Anything to do with sexuality whether the human body, heterosexual relationships, or homosexual relationships, seems to be a constant issue in schools whether it is done tastefully or not.
You are so right that those are the topics most likely to garner censorship. However, I think that this is where, if possible, the librarian can issue a warning to the person checking out the book. For example, I just read The Secret Sky by Atia Abawi, and although it is a beautiful story that takes place in Afghanistan, there are some violent scenes that may disturb some readers. I would try to forewarn the person checking it out. I don't know if this is the answer, but it's better, in my opinion, than censoring books.
DeleteAs much as we don't want to admit it, it is so true! We will often lean towards censorship and it hinders our ability to share knowledge with others. We do so in fear of ruffling people's feathers. Its understandable. I know that controversial topics like the ones you mentioned will continue to be challenged, but as future librarians it is important to keep in mind our right to serve our patrons and to provide materials that are protected under the first amendment. Unfortunately, we won't be able to please everyone all the time.
DeleteJasmine, the topic you stated are similar to what I feel would be limited in my school right now. I am teaching now in a Title I school with those same demographics and I talked with a coworker who just had a serious conservation about race with her class. I have also heard parents say their child are being discriminated against so I can only imagine books with those topics sparking a lot of debate.
DeleteStacey, what does "serious conversation about race" look like? Is the teacher the one who is discriminating against particular races? You've got my social justice meter twitching here...!
DeleteMandy,
DeleteDo you think a "warning" would be similar to labels, according to the American Library Association? See this policy for librarians:
Print
LABELS AND RATING SYSTEMS
An Interpretation of the LIBRARY BILL OF RIGHTS
Libraries do not advocate the ideas found in their collections or in resources accessible through the library. The presence of books and other resources in a library does not indicate endorsement of their contents by the library. Likewise, the ability for library users to access electronic information using library computers does not indicate endorsement or approval of that information by the library.
Labels
Labels on library materials may be viewpoint-neutral directional aids that save the time of users, or they may be attempts to prejudice or discourage users or restrict their access to materials. When labeling is an attempt to prejudice attitudes, it is a censor's tool. The American Library Association opposes labeling as a means of predisposing people's attitudes toward library materials.
Prejudicial labels are designed to restrict access, based on a value judgment that the content, language or themes of the material, or the background or views of the creator(s) of the material, render it inappropriate or offensive for all or certain groups of users. The prejudicial label is used to warn, discourage or prohibit users or certain groups of users from accessing the material. Such labels may be used to remove materials from open shelves to restricted locations where access depends on staff intervention.
Viewpoint-neutral directional aids facilitate access by making it easier for users to locate materials. The materials are housed on open shelves and are equally accessible to all users, who may choose to consult or ignore the directional aids at their own discretion.
Directional aids can have the effect of prejudicial labels when their implementation becomes proscriptive rather than descriptive. When directional aids are used to forbid access or to suggest moral or doctrinal endorsement, the effect is the same as prejudicial labeling.
Rating Systems
A variety of organizations promulgate rating systems as a means of advising either their members or the general public concerning their opinions of the contents and suitability or appropriate age for use of certain books, films, recordings, Web sites, or other materials. The adoption, enforcement, or endorsement of any of these rating systems by the library violates the Library Bill of Rights. Adopting such systems into law may be unconstitutional. If such legislation is passed, the library should seek legal advice regarding the law's applicability to library operations.
Publishers, industry groups, and distributors sometimes add ratings to material or include them as part of their packaging. Librarians should not endorse such practices. However, removing or destroying such ratings—if placed there by, or with permission of, the copyright holder—could constitute expurgation (see Expurgation of Library Materials: An Interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights).
Some find it easy and even proper, according to their ethics, to establish criteria for judging materials as objectionable. However, injustice and ignorance, rather than justice and enlightenment, result from such practices. The American Library Association opposes any efforts that result in closing any path to knowledge.
Adopted July 13, 1951, by the ALA Council; amended June 25, 1971; July 1, 1981; June 26, 1990; January 19, 2005.
[ISBN 8389-5226-7]
Found here: http://www.ala.org/Template.cfm?Section=interpretations&Template=/ContentManagement/ContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=8657
DeleteI don't know. I do know I saw it in action in my library last week. A student who frequents the library came in looking for a book on the TAYSHAS list because the contest has already started. He'd read all but one of the books on the shelf, but one of our librarians cautioned him against it because they know that some of the content would bother this student. I just think that if you know the student, and know their preferences, it would be ok. Again, I find myself in a weird area because I don't think books should be banned, but I also feel we owe it to students to let them read what makes them comfortable. Ugh. So conflicted.
Delete“Miss, that's racist. Mister you can't say that, that's racist”. I hear this all the time at the school I work at, and as a Mexican-Vietnamese American I tell you, the irony lost on passed me. Racism is such an explosive issues with students today. I'm certain that if a book got out that it was racist I'd have a line of parents asking about why it's on the shelf and a line of kids asking to check it out. So how do we deal with that? Do we prohibit kids from learning about a topic they desire to learn more about or do we fight the good fight despite the content? That goes for violence too. When does violence become just way too much and when do we not allow our students to be exposed to it?
ReplyDeleteIs there like a chart or something that we can use to determine whether or not to include something on our shelf?
What do you mean by racist?
DeleteIf it's racist, and here I mean advocating for modern day hatred about a race or sharing lies about a race, I believe it belongs in an academic library - so that race researchers can use it to understand cultures. If it's racist, it doesn't belong in a school library. Ugh-uh. Nope. No way. Even if it's the only book on Native Americans you have. Even if it's the only book on African Americans you have. Gone. Bye. Out.
(1) It's sad that fear of censorship will keep someone from writing or reading something that could change their lives forever. Censorship is a means of control and who should have the final say in what can be written/read? An open mind should be kept in deciding what materials should stay in the library especially if the benefits outweigh the content that's being challenged. Our goal as teachers is to create an environment where we have independent critical thinkers.
ReplyDelete(2) We have a professional responsibility as librarians to stand up for intellectual freedom. We shouldn't just go along with the way things are if it doesn't contribute to student's academic achievement. I like this article because it is a testament to standing up for what is right and not letting one group decide for the whole library. On page 285 I read how a complainant read a passage that was considered obscene and she edited out parts so her point could be magnified. The librarian tried to to discuss specific titles and not the library's role in having those type books in the library. She also had copies of full reviews that were used to develop their collections. If you are going to be in the position to defend you have to prepare yourself for the fight. There are some books out there that our children won't be exposed to because of the fear of someone else. And we can't let that happen.
Stacey, I'm always trying to show a distinction between my work as a teacher and my work as a librarian. When I am a teacher, I agree with you: I want to empower students to be independent, critical thinkers. But, I won't have materials that are questionable. Typically, at least in Texas, I'm using a scripted curriculum - so the flexibility to have diverse materials is certainly smaller. However, as the school librarian, it is my JOB to have diverse materials on all topics... lots of views. I see the work of the teacher and the work of the librarian very different in terms of having diverse perspectives.
DeleteStacey,
DeleteI also love your idea on having review sources to show what professionals say about grade levels. In a couple of cases, the review sources agreed with the parents who contested my materials (books that I inherited), so I quietly shipped the books to my middle school or high school libraries. If I can't defend it with the professionals, y'all there ain't no point. SELECTION not CENSORSHIP.
Stacey,
DeleteI agree with your definition ...Censorship is a means of control and who should have the final say in what can be written/read? It's important that we keep an open mind as librarian.
Question #1:
ReplyDeleteAuthors are no longer writing because many of their ideas are being put down and there will not be any sells of their writing. Banning books prevent one from sharing their thoughts, knowledge and imagination. We have diversity in all students and limited them to books that only appeal to one group of people is unfair. Schools and its library are supposed to accommodate all. Many “unacceptable” topics are not avoidable because they are required by the curriculum. Many books are stories of someone life that usually ends with a theme or moral. Censorship does impact authors, teaching, and learning because it eliminates the ability for one to express themselves. It also takes away from the diversity that is present and requires in our society.
Question #2:
What kind of books can a school library buy or collect? First of all, every school has its guidelines, and those should be abided by. If the guidelines are out of date, revision is warranted. Sometimes, we teachers or librarians may consider a book rich in content and language, but some students may be interested in negative parts of the book. We should know that not all books are suitable to all school students. Teachers and librarians should work closely with parents. Parents are often the first teachers of their children. Those who make suggestions or complaints on our teaching or book selection should be encouraged, and their suggestions be carefully considered. Teachers, librarians and parents are like gardeners. We should guide our children, and let our children grow healthily.
Jackie,
DeleteI agree that limiting books based on fear is unfair to our students. It is impossible to make everyone happy, but it is our responsibility to provide our students with a diverse collection.
1) I work in a school which I consider to be very conservative. The school has received no known complaints for questionable material in the library collection. In my opinion, this is because our collection is also conservative to avoid conflict with very involved parents. I feel that we should not allow censorship to hinder the ability to share knowledge with others, but that is easier said than done. I am one to avoid conflict, but I would be providing a disservice to my students if I let my fear of conflict affect my selection of library materials.
ReplyDelete3) Kristin Pekoll’s article, Stand Up, really enlightened me on situations that can arise for school librarians. I found myself aggravated with the complainants closed mindedness towards this library’s young adult collection. I too am a Christian, but I feel that I do not have the right to pass judgment on the lifestyles of others. As a librarian for students who could be struggling with their identities or sexuality, I would feel obligated to at least make resources available to which these students can easily relate to. I have to agree with Pekoll’s idea that it is a parent responsibility to make the determination of whether a book is appropriate for his or her child. My school’s library has not received any reconsideration forms for questionable material. In my opinion, this is because the collection is more conservative because the school is very conservative. I feel that the collection is conservative to avoid conflict with a very involved parent community which is not exactly upholding the Library Bill of Rights.
Megan,
DeleteThe school I worked according to the library we have not receive any complaint either. Our librarian does a great job, with weeding out materials. I notice the students always checking out AR books to earn their points.
Final thought for week 5.....
ReplyDeleteAs we wrap up week 5 on censorship we need to remember that we can't allow censorship to control what we can and cannot have on our shelves. If we have a solid and detailed collection plan in place and follow the guidelines set up in our document along with the professional reviews to back up what is appropriate, then we as librarians should be able to house whatever books that would be beneficial and of interest to our students.
Here we come week 6 :)
Final thought for week 5...
ReplyDeleteLooking back on week 5, censorship can't dictate what we have in our collections. There will be times when problems arise from materials in our collection, but we will not be able to please everyone. As future librarians we must have a collection that is beneficial to our students.
Thanks to everyone who participated. Your feedback is greatly appreciated!