LSC 5546 - Current School Library Issues: Legal & Ethical Perspectives

School library candidates will explore current issues facing school librarians through legal and ethical prisms while weighing changes in professional practice. Participants will explore five major issue areas: copyright; 2) minors’ privacy in a school library; 3) intellectual freedom including the First Amendment, filtering, self-censorship, and challenges to library and classroom resources; 4) access to library resources and services for students with special needs; and 5) advocacy for minors’ intellectual freedom. For each issue, participants will examine the legal requirements under the First amendment, federal, and/or state laws; consider the gray-area dilemmas faced daily; seek guidance form the ALA Code of Ethics and other core professional statements; and determine best practice in an ever-changing environment. With an emphasis on discussion and blogging with experts, and use of other social media tools, school library candidates will engage in real-life practical exercises and creative projects.

Credits: 3cr