Twenty five librarians participated at our recent Conference and AGM, hosted by Andea Dillon at Blackrock College Library. We were warmly welcomed by some of the student members of the college’s Library Committee. The beautifully appointed space with its flexible furnishing was the perfect environment for our attendees to discuss the issue of censorship.
The debate offered suggestions and ideas for how best to formulate a collection policy that is clear in its advocacy for intellectual freedom and serves to develop responsible and independent inquiry and exploration in a democratic society. Such an approach would be in line with the IFLA statement on Libraries and Intellectual Freedom. Useful guidance material was highlighted from the American Library Association and the National Library of New Zealand’s School Service.
Our guest speaker author Peter Cunningham spoke about the interesting research he carried out in relation to censorship in Ireland during the early twentieth century for his novel ‘Freedom is a Land I Cannot See’.
Raven Books of Blackrock provided a pop-up bookshop with a wonderful selection of books and speedy delivery. This service was greatly appreciated by the school librarians.
We are most grateful to Andrea Dillon and Blackrock College for hosting the event.
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