Codes of Ethics

Part of creating a blog on libraries and ethics was assembling a list of codes of ethics adhered to by the professional organizations to which serve the various types of librarians. In comparing the various codes of ethics, there were two items of interest that repeated. The first is the idea that the librarian, regardless of which type, has a duty to the profession and its values that should not be violated. While there is a duty to the organization or community which supports the library, the values of the profession should not be compromised. The second item that repeated was the duty of the librarian to uphold intellectual property rights while providing information to users.

One of the professional values that the SCIP and ALA both emphasized is the need to avoid conflicts of interest although the ALA was specific in mandating that the librarian separate personal beliefs from professional duties. The ASIS&T requires its members to "treat all persons fairly." 

As an interesting point of contrast, I have included a link to the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions collection of professional codes of ethics. Some are brief lists while others include expository comments on the items in the code.