by Kristin Pekoll

Equitable access to information for all, including underserved populations, is a core value of librarianship. The growing awareness of where this inequality persists has led many professionals to take steps to advance social justice within their institutions, from creating book displays about the Black Lives Matter movement or LGBT History Month to hosting programs by potentially controversial speakers. But while libraries are often well-versed in protecting the right to read books, many lack policies and experience in addressing censorship of resources and services. This resource from Pekoll, Assistant Director of the American Library Association's Office for Intellectual Freedom (OIF), uses specific case studies to offer practical guidance on safeguarding intellectual freedom related to library displays, programming, and other librarian-created content. Essential for library directors, administrators, marketers, and programming staff, Beyond Banned Books

• spotlights case studies drawn from public libraries, schools, universities, and government agencies dealing with library displays, artwork, programs, bookmarks and reading lists, social media, and databases;
• summarizes possible complaints and controversies related to each area;
• draws connections between the...

by Kristin Pekoll

Equitable access to information for all, including underserved populations, is a core value of librarianship. The growing awareness of where this inequality persists has led many professionals to take steps to advance social justice within their institutions, from creating book displays about the Black Lives Matter movement or LGBT History Month to hosting programs by potentially controversial speakers. But while libraries are often well-versed in protecting the right to read books, many lack policies and experience in addressing censorship of resources and services. This resource from Pekoll, Assistant Director of the American Library Association's Office for Intellectual Freedom (OIF), uses specific case studies to offer practical guidance on safeguarding intellectual freedom related to library displays, programming, and other librarian-created content. Essential for library directors, administrators, marketers, and programming staff, Beyond Banned Books

• spotlights case studies drawn from public libraries, schools, universities, and government agencies dealing with library displays, artwork, programs, bookmarks and reading lists, social media, and databases;
• summarizes possible complaints and controversies related to each area;
• draws connections between the intellectual freedom principles involved and associated legal issues, with relevant court opinions when possible;
• shares questions to consider when strengthening a library’s defenses against censorship;
• discusses the importance of reporting challenges to OIF, and the professional and institutional support that OIF can provide when challenges arise; and
• includes key ALA policies on intellectual freedom as appendices.

This guide will ensure that libraries are prepared to protect diverse voices from censorship while fostering more inclusive institutions that represent and welcome all people and ideas.

CATALOG PAGE

Normally, the Research Blog describes library resources that might be useful to students and faculty. However, today we are departing from that mission to recognize Former Head of Circulation at the McNichols Campus Library Betty Nelson's son Derick who was killed seven years ago, May 9, 2015. Today's blog is a reprise of a blog posted that summer.

It happens everyday. Everyday you watch the news and there is another story about a senseless shooting in some part of Detroit. If you pay any attention at all, it's only to shrug and think to yourself what's wrong with this city? Another anonymous casualty. But on May 9, 2015 a member of the library family, the Detroit Mercy family, became the victim. Betty Nelson's only child, Derick, was gunned down in the parking lot of his gated community apartment.

Derick earned his Bachelors in Computer and Information Systems and Masters in Information Assurance from Detroit Mercy. He worked in the library during the years he was attending school here and was well known and well liked by many among the Detroit Mercy community. Derick was a brilliant, creative and giving individual. He was the kind of person who would do anything for you. That may...

Normally, the Research Blog describes library resources that might be useful to students and faculty. However, today we are departing from that mission to recognize Former Head of Circulation at the McNichols Campus Library Betty Nelson's son Derick who was killed seven years ago, May 9, 2015. Today's blog is a reprise of a blog posted that summer.

It happens everyday. Everyday you watch the news and there is another story about a senseless shooting in some part of Detroit. If you pay any attention at all, it's only to shrug and think to yourself what's wrong with this city? Another anonymous casualty. But on May 9, 2015 a member of the library family, the Detroit Mercy family, became the victim. Betty Nelson's only child, Derick, was gunned down in the parking lot of his gated community apartment.

Derick earned his Bachelors in Computer and Information Systems and Masters in Information Assurance from Detroit Mercy. He worked in the library during the years he was attending school here and was well known and well liked by many among the Detroit Mercy community. Derick was a brilliant, creative and giving individual. He was the kind of person who would do anything for you. That may sound cliche, but in his case it was the truth.

I can't even imagine what it would be like to lose your only child so suddenly and so egregiously. There will be no peace for anyone who loved Derick until whomever took this amazing soul away from his family and friends is caught. At Derick's funeral, Pastor Alphonso Coleman said, "We thank God for the justice while we wait for it to manifest".

Derick's story was featured on Fox News and WDIV. Six years later, Derick's killer has still not been arrested. Crime Stoppers is looking for tips as to who might be responsible and offering a reward.

Here at Detroit Mercy, thanks to the generosity of those who donated, a tree was planted in Derick's honor and scholarships for three students within University College were provided in Derick's name.

Knowing Derick's penchant for computers and technology, Pastor Coleman said, "Derick downloaded something in all of us." He certainly did and no bullet can change that.

The Detroit Mercy librarians are happy to welcome new and returing students to the to the library.  Here is some news you can use.

Our regular hours are:
Monday-Thursday   8:00am - 8:00pm
Friday                       8:00am - 5:00pm
Saturday                  Closed
Sunday                    Closed
Hours are subject to change and may vary during holidays, breaks and finals. Check the library website.

You will need a student ID to access the library.

Fast Facts About the Library:

Phone numbers:
Check-out Desk: 313-993-1795
Research & Information Desk 313-993-1071

Chat with a Detroit Mercy librarian online from 15 minutes after opening to 15 minutes before closing. Use...

The Detroit Mercy librarians are happy to welcome new and returing students to the to the library.  Here is some news you can use.

Our regular hours are:
Monday-Thursday   8:00am - 8:00pm
Friday                       8:00am - 5:00pm
Saturday                  Closed
Sunday                    Closed
Hours are subject to change and may vary during holidays, breaks and finals. Check the library website.

You will need a student ID to access the library.

Fast Facts About the Library:

Phone numbers:
Check-out Desk: 313-993-1795
Research & Information Desk 313-993-1071

Chat with a Detroit Mercy librarian online from 15 minutes after opening to 15 minutes before closing. Use the chat box after regular hours for 24/7 service.

The library has Wi-Fi Internet access: bring your laptop. No laptop? No problem. The library has over 25 computers for use including 3 Macs.
Wireless printing is available in black and white and in color.

Reserve a study room for group or individual use here.

The Bookmark Cafe is in the lobby of the library for your food and beverage needs featuring Starbucks coffee.

Electronic Resources and Remote Access:

Databases, full text journals, and electronic books are accessible through the library portal: http://libraries.udmercy.edu.

If you experience access problems, call the Research & Information Desk at the number listed above.

Borrowing materials:

The loan period is 28 days for books and 1 week for DVD's. You must have your student ID to check out materials. You may renew once by phone or through your account in the online catalog (no DVD renewals). Use the Sign In link when you are in the catalog. Sign in with your Blackboard account login and password.

Course Reserve materials are at the Check-out Desk (in library use only).

For Your Entertainment

The library has music CD's, audio books, and movies and television shows on DVD for your down time.

This is just the tip of the iceberg. Come in, say hi and find out what else the Detroit Mercy library has for you.