Open Access3D Printing in Libraries: A View from Within the American Library Association: Privacy, Intellectual Freedom and Ethical Policy Framework
Author(s) -
Jones Barbara M.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
bulletin of the association for information science and technology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Conference proceedings
ISSN - 2373-9223
DOI - 10.1002/bul2.2015.1720420113
Subject(s) - intellectual freedom , terminology , freedom of expression , freedom of information , internet privacy , public relations , digital library , information policy , process (computing) , intellectual property , computer science , political science , censorship , law , human rights , philosophy , linguistics , operating system , art , literature , poetry
EDITOR'S SUMMARY Two fundamental purposes of libraries are to provide access to information and enable freedom of expression. Digital technologies have spurred the American Library Association to examine patron use of 3D printing technology in light of intellectual freedom policy. Libraries are strongly encouraged to proactively formulate and implement acceptable use policies regarding their 3D printers. The policy statement should address the library's mission to nurture creative expression; express policies in a straightforward, positive tone without repeating existing laws; outline the process for creating, submitting and retrieving a work; and define terminology. The ALA's own policy and advocacy documents support statements on the ethics of access for all, intellectual freedom regarding content, avoidance of anything illegal, patron privacy, and libraries as public forums promoting user interaction with information where any restrictions are content neutral.