Intellectual and academic freedom is a core value of the Association of Research Libraries. ARL believes in the importance of honest and open discourse and debate to the development of human knowledge and to responsible and effective governance. ARL believes in the right of individuals to express ideas, ask questions, and pursue research that reflects their own priorities—particularly when such ideas are underrepresented, unpopular, or critical—unhindered by political interference, personal attacks, or harassment.
Research libraries uphold freedom of inquiry, expression, access to information, and civic dialogue and engagement through their collections, teaching and public programming, and services. At the same time, research libraries’ commitment to inclusion means attention to representation and participation, particularly of underrepresented groups, across our collections and services.
Our member libraries help students, scholars, and lifelong learners navigate sources of information, evaluate information for integrity, and provide a platform for exploration and new knowledge. That such inquiry will sometimes cause discomfort is precisely the reason to build and protect the capacity of scholars, educational institutions, memory organizations, and communities.
Resources
Building Resilient & Inclusive Communities of Knowledge (BRICK), Polarization & Extremism Research & Innovation Lab (PERIL)
Campus Free Speech Guide, PEN America
Centre for Free Expression (CFE), Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU)
Making the Case for Academic Freedom and Institutional Autonomy in a Challenging Political Environment, American Council on Education (ACE) and PEN America
Additional Resources are available on the ARL Executive Institute: Memo to the Membership page (login required)
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Rise of Legislation Targeting “Divisive” Concepts and What It Means for Research Libraries
Legislative History & Congressional Inquiry The legislative origin of the bills targeting so-called divisive concepts is an executive order signed by then-President Trump in 2020, “Combating Race and Sex Stereotyping.”...
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Association of Research Libraries Joins Amicus Brief on Behalf of University of North Carolina and Harvard for Academic Freedom in Admissions
Along with 38 other higher education associations, the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) joined the American Council on Education (ACE) in filing an amicus brief to the US Supreme Court in the case of Students...
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American Council on Education (ACE) Statement on Academic Inquiry
On March 3, 2022, ARL joined 90 higher education associations in stating that free and open academic inquiry is a core value of higher education. Letter on academic inquiry
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American Historical Association (AHA) Statement Opposing Legislative Efforts to Restrict Education about Racism and American History
On June 14, 2021, ARL joined American Historical Association in opposing legislation that aims to prohibit or impede the teaching and education of students concerning what are termed “divisive concepts.”...
