Library Ethics

Did you know that library professionals adhere to a code of ethics? As student workers, you don't have to abide by the code of ethics in the same way, but it can be helpful to understand what library ethics are when providing customer service in a library setting. Watch the following modules of the ICfL course on the ALA Code of Ethics linked below:

Library Ethics and Public Service

  • Professional Ethics (all sections)
  • Equitable Access (all sections)
  • Intellectual Freedom (watch through Intellectual Freedom)
  • Privacy and Confidentiality (watch through PrIvacy and Confidentiality)
  • Respect, Fairness, and Good Faith (all sections)
  • Private Interests and Personal Beliefs (watch Article 7)
  • Diversity and Inclusion (all sections)

You're welcome to watch the other sections if you wish, but they do not all apply to our library!


Please also review this infographic on the ALA's guidelines for providing reference and information services.

Check these links for more information on the ALA Code of Ethics and RUSA guidelines

https://www.ala.org/rusa/resources/guidelines/guidelinesbehavioral 

https://www.ala.org/tools/ethics 

 

Implicit Bias Training

Complete the following training from University of Wisconsin-Madison on Implicit Bias. Read the entirety of the training and watch the two included videos. 

Implicit Bias training

After completing this training, you can take some of the Implicit Bias tests at the link below. These are optional, but highly encouraged!

Harvard Implicit Associations test

Customer Service

Read the following articles about customer service in libraries and complete the quiz on Addressing Library Anxiety.

Research Quiz

Complete the tutorial below on advanced research strategies. Be sure to also review the Research Subject Guides offerings and know where to find other tools on the library website, including databases, journals, newspapers, and FAQs.