Policy Statements to Intellectual Freedom and Respect for Diversity 

The following statements were considered and approved by the Commissioners at their meeting of February 28, 2000.

1. That the Oakland Public Library, through its policies and practices, take a proactive stand in supporting intellectual freedom and the Library Bill of Rights and become vigorous advocates of both.
2. That the Oakland Public Library reviews its other policies relating to open access, programs, Internet Access, and collection development to ensure that they reflect the Library Bill of Rights and ensure adequate procedures exist for dealing with complaints.
3. That the Oakland Public Library administration take concrete steps to reaffirm its commitment that the Library will not tolerate discriminatory or prejudicial treatment, including homophobic behavior towards staff, library users, or the collection and resources of the Library.
4. That the Oakland Public Library administration take concrete steps to educate library staff and administrators in 3 priority areas: 1) intellectual freedom in libraries; 2) respect for diversity based on differences, including, but not limited to, race, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, economic status, age, and disability; 3) countering homophobic behavior and developing sensitivity to gay and lesbian issues.

Revised 2/11/00