Metuchen Public Library

“Intellectual freedom is the right of library users to read, seek information, and speak freely as guaranteed by the First Amendment. Intellectual freedom is one of the core values of the library profession; it promotes access to information and guides the defense against censorship.”–American Library Association

The Metuchen Public Library endorses the principles of the Library Bill of Rights, Freedom to Read Statement, and the Freedom to View Statement adopted by the American Library Association.

As proclaimed in the Bill of Rights to the United States Constitution, freedom of expression, specifically the right to publish diverse opinions, is essential to the democratic form of government. A public institution committed to the principles of democracy and intellectual freedom, Metuchen Public Library recognizes its obligation to provide as wide a range of materials as possible.

Diverse points of view, including controversial and unorthodox subjects, are available in this collection. Inclusion in the collection does not imply Library approval of or agreement with the contents. Library materials are not marked or identified to show approval or disapproval of the contents, nor are materials sequestered except for the purpose of protecting them from damage or theft.

No restrictions are placed on what anyone may read, view, or listen to. Selection of materials to include in the collection will not be made on the basis of any anticipated approval or disapproval, but solely on the merits of the material in relation to building the collection and to serving the needs and the interests of all users. While anyone is free to select or reject materials for themselves or their own minor children, the values of one will not be imposed on the many. Parents and legal guardians have the responsibility for their child’s use of Library materials.

The Metuchen Public Library Board of Trustees stands firmly opposed to the restriction, removal, and/or censorship of books and other library materials in an attempt to limit the freedom to read or obstruct intellectual freedom.

1st Reading October 11, 2022