American Library Association

Intellectual Freedom Round Table

Executive Committee Minutes

2005 Midwinter Conference

Boston, MA

IFRT I

January 15, 2005 2 – 4:00 PM

Present:

Officers:

Barbara Jones                         Chair

Pam Klipsch                           Chair-Elect

Christine M. Allen                  Director

J. Douglas Archer                   Director

Lauren Christos                      Director

Sylvia Turchyn                       Director

Carolyn Caywood                   Councilor

Carol Gulyas                       Secretary

Committees/Liaisons:

Laura Koltutsky                      SRRT Liaison to IFRT

Jim Kuhn                                IFRT Liaison to SRRT; Member, Program Committee

Martin Garnar                         Chair, Membership Promotion Committee

Melora Ranney Norman         Chair, Nominating Committee; Past Chair, IFRT

Pamela Bonnell-Mihalis         Chair, Oboler Memorial Award Comm.; FTRF Liaison

Christopher Bowen                 Chair, SIRS-ProQuest State and Regional Achievement Award Comm.

Laurence Miller                      Chair, John Phillip Immroth Memorial Award Comm.

Elizabeth Dailey                     Member, Oboler Memorial Award Comm.

Nanette Perez                         IFRT Staff Liaison

Members/Guests:

Joan Beam, John Beekman, Fred Stielow, Eric Suess, Jim Teliha 

Call to Order: Jones called the meeting to order at 2:07 PM. After introductions, Jones invited all new attendees to get involved in Intellectual Freedom Round Table, and indicated that Caywood would serve as parliamentarian. Perez shared the sad news that Gordon Conable had passed away unexpectedly, and that a memorial service would be held on Monday at Midwinter, with time and place TBD. His family requests donations to Freedom to Read Foundation. A sympathy card was circulated. David Cohen’s wife’s passing was also announced. Intellectual Freedom Round Table will invite Intellectual Freedom Committee to join together on a festschrift, or other suitable memorial as appropriate. Archer moved, Allen seconded, and it was

VOTED, That staff liaison be directed to explore this idea. The motion was approved.

Review and Approval of Agenda: Kuhn noted that “Speaking with One Voice” discussion needed to be added to the agenda. Caywood moved, Christos seconded, and it was

            VOTED, That the agenda be approved as amended. The motion was approved.

Review of the 2004 Annual Meeting Minutes: The minutes were reviewed. Archer moved, Norman seconded, and it was

            VOTED that the minutes be approved as submitted. The motion was approved.

Review of the Agenda for the Joint Meeting with ALA Intellectual Freedom Committee and Division Intellectual Freedom Committees:

The agenda for the joint meeting was approved.

Nominating Comm. Report:

Norman asked for volunteers and passed around a signup sheet. Koltutsky volunteered to run for Treasurer and also volunteered to fill in as Treasurer through the end of Cindy Lombardo’s term, which ends at ALA Annual 2005.

Seventh Edition of IF Manual: Garner encouraged all to share their comments, which can be taken up until Tuesday, 1/18/2005 at end of day.

Stielow expressed concern that Intellectual Freedom Round Table be highlighted in the Manual as a place where members can go if they have a complaint, and asked that we consider other ways Intellectual Freedom Round Table can get its name out into the public sphere.

BISG/ALA RFID Privacy Principles:

Kuhn asked for comments and questions. Bowen reported that the Book Industry Study Group has been involved in developing the Radio Frequency Identification privacy principles. One goal is that the statement be broad enough to remain valid as technology changes. The Book Industry Study Group visited this morning’s Intellectual Freedom Committee meeting, in which two important issues were brought up by Nancy Kranich: 1) no personal information should be on any chip, and 2) “promiscuity” in Radio Frequency Identification tags is a problem. Tags are being widely used in business. All agreed that this is a problem. The purpose of the resolution is to pass the recommendations back to ALA’s Office for Information Technology Policy, with the ultimate goal of creating library-specific policy documents for library use. Such guidelines would direct libraries to develop a “privacy-friendly” policy. Caywood noted that many businesses are not recognizing the constitution, and that it is important to cite the Radio Frequency Identification principles that have already been developed. Stielow and Gulyas registered concern that the resolution may be worded so vaguely as not to have enough teeth.

Turchyn moved, Archer seconded, and it was

VOTED, that the resolution move forward to Council, co-sponsored by the Office for Information Technology Policy. The motion was approved.

IF Alerts:

A. Resolution Opposing a National Identification Card. Caywood recommended deferring comment until the most up to date version is available. Perez will provide latest version for review at IFRT II.

B. Gay Book Ban Goal of State Lawmaker. Stielow urged that a stand be taken on educational principles, vs. openly opposing the ban. Bonnell-Mihalis noted that in the Freedom to Read Foundation meeting it was reported that the bill wasn’t going to survive and doesn’t have co-sponsors. Garnar indicated that the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgendered Round Table was also discussing this matter, and that ALA has already issued a statement against this ban. It was agreed that the legislation does not merit attention at this time.

C. Orange Libraries Ban ‘Unaccompanied Adults’ from Kids’ Area. There was general discomfort with this rule coupled with understanding of how it might be necessary in some libraries, especially libraries with very small staffs. Turchyn noted that this would ban teachers and other adults who work with children from researching teaching materials for children. It was noted that this problem predates the internet. Caywood suggested ignoring the rule until someone complains that their access is being denied. After discussion, it was agreed that the situation would be monitored and reviewed at Annual 2005.

D. Other alerts

Norman noted that an entire Mississippi library system had banned Jon Stewart’s book America (The Book): A Citizen's Guide to Democracy Inaction, then backed off. This situation will be monitored.

Course Management Systems. Jones pointed out a concern that Blackboard software allows for faculty to see what students are reading, constituting an invasion of privacy. Jones to look further into the issue, contact the Association for College and Research Libraries, and generate discussion about this issue on the Intellectual Freedom Round Table member list. Jones will develop the Course Management Privacy Committee, and develop a “think piece” for discussion at Annual 2005.

Caywood: Virginia State Legislature making state aid to public library funding contingent on installing filtering on all computers. Talking points are needed as to why this is an invalid extension of the Children’s Internet Protection Act. More communication with state Intellectual Freedom Committees is needed. Jones appointed Caywood to head a subcommittee on better coordination/dissemination of Children’s Internet Protection Act information, with Norman, Christos and Allen as members.

Gulyas noted that this kind of legislation is really a way de-fund libraries by making library funding subject to political ends, and that the round table should be mindful of the larger issue.

Program Planning

Norman: Susan Jacoby, author of Freethinkers: A History of American Secularism will be on the panel about religion. Archer suggested a librarian responder panel. Mike Wessels and Archer were asked to appear as the responder panel. There was much discussion as to whether the award should be given at the program or at the separate reception. As the two events are right next to each other, the Program Committee will consider all comments and make a recommendation at IFRTII. Information on the program and the award needs to be sent out to the library schools, the Catholic Library Association, and ALTA in an email broadcast. This matter was referred to the Membership Promotion Committee.

Preconference Planning

There is budget for a Preconference for 2006. Discussion of the merits of having a Preconference was tabled.

Publications Committee: The IFRT Report is published. Archer suggested that there needs to be more involvement by the committee membership in its production. The next issue needs to be published as soon as possible. Archer is studying XML so that he can more easily enter content and transition it to the next editor. Christos suggested attaching a membership form; Stielow suggested an online hall of fame. Archer encouraged all to contribute ideas.

Jones declared the meeting in recess at 4:01 pm.

American Library Association

Intellectual Freedom Round Table

Executive Committee Minutes

2005 Midwinter Conference

Boston, Massachusetts

IFRT II

                                                   January 17, 2005 8-10am 

Present:

Officers:

Barbara Jones                         Chair

Pam Klipsch                           Chair-Elect

Christine M. Allen                  Director

Doug Archer                           Director

Sylvia Turchyn                       Director

Carolyn Caywood                   Councilor

Laura Koltutsky                      Acting Treasurer

Carol Gulyas                       Secretary

Committees/Liaisons:

Laura Koltutsky                      SRRT Liaison to IFRT

Jim Kuhn                                IFRT Liaison to SRRT; Member Program Committee

Martin Garnar                         Chair, Membership Promotion Committee

Janice Tsai                              Member, Membership Promotion Committee

Melora Ranney Norman         Chair, Nominating Committee; Past Chair, IFRT

Pamela Bonnell-Mihalis         Chair, Oboler Memorial Award Comm.; FTRF                                                                     Liaison

Christopher F. Bowen            Chair, SIRS-ProQuest State and Regional Achievement Award Comm.

Nanette Perez                         IFRT Staff Liaison

Members/Guests: Eric Suess, L. Hitchcock, Janice Tsai, Carrie Gardner

Call to Order:

Jones called the meeting to order at 8:09 am.

Review and Approval of Agenda: Garnar, liaison to Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgendered Round Table, added discussion of a joint resolution to the agenda. The agenda was approved as amended.

Joint Resolution with GLBTRT:

Garnar reported that the Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgendered Round Table was uncertain about preparing a resolution against the Alabama statewide ban of gay literature in libraries. Caywood proposed working with the Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgendered Round Table, between now and Annual 2005, to draft a broader resolution that condemns efforts to deprive any citizen of access to information on sexual orientation. Garnar to suggest this possibility to the Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgendered Round Table.

IFRT Preliminary Budget: The budget is in good shape, with surplus funds available. Perez confirmed that the Liaison Luncheon and honoraria for three speakers at $500 are included in the budget. Archer noted that the budget should indicate that there are four issues of IFRT Report, not two. There is also sufficient funding for a festschrift, as well as funds for an additional program for 2006. There is a fund balance of $41,000. Caywood moved, Klipsch seconded, and it was

            VOTED, That the budget be approved. The motion was approved.

Program Planning:

Gulyas reported that regarding the Intellectual Freedom Round Table/Young Adult Library Services Association joint program on Intellectual Freedom and Youth, scheduled for ALA Annual 2005, the proper co-sponsorship form has been submitted.

Publications Committee:

Archer indicated that February 15, 2005 is deadline for copy for the IFRT Report, with a target publication date of March 1, 2005. The deadline for the June 1^st issue is May 15.

Round Table Coordinating Assembly:

Caywood reported that comments to the American Library Association 2010 Strategic Plan are due January 31. Caywood recommended that a bullet be added to indicate that we do not restrict access, and that the word “ethics” be added to the bullet concerning the profession. Other members will provide their comments on the Strategic Plan via email.

Nell Chenault is on the Conference Coordinating Committee for 2006; we should provide as much information as possible to her, so that our programs have a better chance of getting tracked appropriately. Caywood recommended nominating a member of IFRT to the Conference Program Coordinating Committee for 2008; this should be added to the Agenda for ALA Annual 2005. Carla Hayden, Immediate Past President of American Library Association, attended the Round Table Coordinating Assembly, and took suggestions from Caywood regarding the fact that the Conference Program needs a subject index so that programs can be more easily found.

Caywood suggested we cultivate a closer relationship with the Library Support Staff Interests Round Table. Klipsch may be interested in exploring a liaison relationship. Discussion needs to occur on how we will relate to the Diversity Interest Network & Exchange.

Candidate Presentation:

Leslie Burger, a candidate for President of American Library Association, visited the meeting and promoted her candidacy.

Resolutions:

Resolution on Privacy and Standardized Driver’s Licenses and Personal Identification Cards. Kuhn reported that this resolution is undergoing revision for review at the Intellectual Freedom Committee III meeting today, and recommended that we endorse it in principle. Norman moved, Caywood seconded, and it was

            VOTED, That we endorse the resolution in principle. The motion was approved.

Program Planning:

The “Religion and Intellectual Freedom” program was discussed. Norman reported that the Program Committee would like to spend time during the reception honoring the award recipients and letting friends and colleagues talk with them, while also spending time acknowledging recipients during the program. Caywood mentioned that food and handouts should be provided at the reception. Someone will be designated to receive guests, provide handouts, promote membership, and direct attendees to the food (which will be covered until the appropriate time). Christos and Turchyn volunteered to do this. Kuhn would like the recipients to address the program attendees for two minutes. Caywood suggested the Downs Award event could be used as a model. The reception is scheduled from 12 noon until 1:30, and the program runs from 1:30 to 3:30pm. Jones noted the importance of a good transition. The Program Committee will review all suggestions and design a workable schedule. This event should be promoted in the IFRT Report and other member materials. Norman will confirm Susan Jacoby’s attendance and facilitate the library responder panel, which needs to particularly address the tension in the library setting between collection development and patrons’ responses and viewpoints. The responder panel will touch on the issues that affect staff at the point of use. The speakers will have 20 minutes to half an hour to speak, and panelists will have 10-15 minutes.

Report of Officers:

Jones: No Report

Klipsch reported that the first Liaison Luncheon went well. Response was very positive among the 26 attendees. Evaluation forms indicated that attendees found it valuable. It was suggested that the Chair-elect could take responsibility for this project in future, and that the event be held annually. Klipsch will start making committee appointments directly after this conference, and asked for cooperation. The

Conference program for 2006 is still taking shape; topic under consideration is how minority perspectives are reflected in collections. New Orleans provides opportunities to have Native American library voices heard. Norman moved, Koltutsky seconded, and it was

VOTED, That the Liaison Luncheon become a regular feature at Midwinter Conference. The motion was approved.

Allen: No Report

Archer: No Report

Turchyn reported that she had been slated to speak at a state conference on Women in Indiana Libraries, but the conference was cancelled for lack of registration. Turchyn will present at the Indiana University School of Library and Information Science.

Caywood reported that the Intellectual Freedom Committee endorsed in principle the Resolution on Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Technology and Privacy Principles; and the Committee on Legislation’s Draft Resolution on Privacy and Standardized Driver’s Licenses and Personal Identification Cards. The Resolution on Abuse of Patron Data was deferred to Intellectual Freedom Committee on Privacy, where it rests. Caywood read aloud the Resolution on Workplace Speech. Caywood moved to endorse, Gulyas seconded, and it was

            VOTED, That the IFRT endorse the Resolution on Workplace Speech. The motion was approved.

The Resolution on Health Care has been resubmitted. Council I debated the Resolution on Salinas Libraries, which was tabled. Caywood noted that the resolution is too vaguely worded and its use of the word “support” implies financial commitment. The resolution on ALA Partnerships was not addressed. “One Voice” Policy will not be addressed. Nominees for Intellectual Freedom Committee Executive Board are being considered. The IFRT trusts Caywood to make the right decision regarding this Resolution if it is brought to Council.

Candidate Presentation:

Christine Lind Hage, candidate for ALA President, addressed the group.

Preconference Program:

Discussion of a Preconference was tabled until Annual. Norman will bring up the topic on the IFRT list.

Standing Committee Reports:

Membership Promotion Committee:

Garnar reported that IFRT Member Packets have been developed. Beverly Becker will contact state Intellectual Freedom Committee chairs about the packets. Membership totals 1,775 as of November 30; IFRT is now 50 members larger than Social Responsibilities Round Table.

State and Regional Achievement Award Committee:

Bowen reported that there are as yet no nominees; deadline was extended until end of January, 2005. Bowen and Perez will send a message to the State Intellectual Freedom Committee lists calling for nominees.

Bylaws Committee:

Jones reported that this committee will have a document to review at Annual.

John Phillip Immroth Memorial Award Committee:

Norman reported that the committee approved the Hayes, Kansas Public Library as winner of the award. Under enormous pressure, this library has resisted internet filtering and struggled to keep books on the shelf.

Oboler Memorial Award Committee Report:

No report.

2005 Annual Conference (Chicago, IL) Tentative Schedule

IFRT I Friday, June 24, 2-5:30pm

Religion and Intellectual Freedom Program, Saturday, 6/25 1:30 to 3:30

IFRT/Youth Joint Program, Sunday, 6/26, 1:30 to 3:30

IFRT II Monday, June 27, 8 to 10

Adjournment: Jones adjourned the meeting at 10:03 AM.