No, there is no "agenda." This ninth addition to the code of ethics falls directly in line with EDI guidelines already set forth by the ALA, supported by MLA, and library institutions across the country. The groups singled out in this point are historically marginalized, their history has been censored, and their intrinsic identities - who they are BORN AS - make them targets for hate and abuse. Their very identities have been discussed to death and who they are has been deemed as less than which is unacceptable. This is not viewpoints and opinions. This is not about beliefs. These are people. People that are out patrons. The aspect about conduct is to prevent them from hateful conduct. I would be happy to provide the supporting documentation and data for why this is important. I recently did that research for Lakeland: Amber McLainLibrary Director, Patmos Library ----- Original Message ----- From: IL Jennifer Salgat via Michlib-l <michlib-l@mcls.org> To: mweston dowagiacdl.org <mweston@dowagiacdl.org> Cc: michlib-l@mcls.org Sent: Thu, 05 Aug 2021 08:34:40 -0400 (EDT) Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] New equity and social justice principle added to ALA Code of Ethics I agree there seems to be an agenda to that last part. To truly be inclusive and diverse, we need to be willing to tolerate ALL opinions right? Even the 'far right' ideology that seems to be currently politically incorrect. Tolerance must go both ways, otherwise, we are also bullying people into silence. From: "mweston dowagiacdl.org via Michlib-l" <michlib-l@mcls.org> To: michlib-l@mcls.org Sent: Wednesday, August 4, 2021 8:40:49 PM Subject: [Michlib-l] New equity and social justice principle added to ALA Code of Ethics I'd like to support Karyn Ruley's concerns about ALA's most recent addition to their Code of Ethics. Reading through the first eight principles, and into the first sentence of the ninth, there is a sense of the universal and of the common humanity we share with ourselves and our patrons. "...all library users", "...each library user's rights", and "...the inherent dignity and rights of every person", changes dramatically in tone with "dismantle systemic and individual biases" and "advance racial and social justice". Absolutely this is worthy of discussion, and this is the place for it. Matt Weston, Library Director Dowagiac District Library 211 Commercial St. Dowagiac, MI 49047-1728 269-782-3826 _______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org https://mail3.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l -- Jennifer Salgat Director Lake Odessa Community Library 1007 Fourth Avenue Lake Odessa MI 48849 616.374.4591

Well said, Amber McLain. I would also like to add, "tolerance must go both ways" is just a dog whistle to allow proponents of hate speech to say whatever they want in the name of their "personal beliefs." There is no place for that type of conduct in a public library system. To denounce said conduct is in no way "bullying people into silence." I strenuously object to that mischaracterization of what we are discussing. On Thu, Aug 5, 2021 at 12:06 PM OJ Amber Mclain via Michlib-l < michlib-l@mcls.org> wrote:

No, there is no "agenda." This ninth addition to the code of ethics falls directly in line with EDI guidelines already set forth by the ALA, supported by MLA, and library institutions across the country. The groups singled out in this point are historically marginalized, their history has been censored, and their intrinsic identities - who they are BORN AS - make them targets for hate and abuse. Their very identities have been discussed to death and who they are has been deemed as less than which is unacceptable. This is not viewpoints and opinions. This is not about beliefs. These are people. People that are out patrons. The aspect about conduct is to prevent them from hateful conduct. I would be happy to provide the supporting documentation and data for why this is important. I recently did that research for Lakeland:

Amber McLainLibrary Director, Patmos Library

----- Original Message ----- From: IL Jennifer Salgat via Michlib-l <michlib-l@mcls.org> To: mweston dowagiacdl.org <mweston@dowagiacdl.org> Cc: michlib-l@mcls.org Sent: Thu, 05 Aug 2021 08:34:40 -0400 (EDT) Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] New equity and social justice principle added to ALA Code of Ethics

I agree there seems to be an agenda to that last part. To truly be inclusive and diverse, we need to be willing to tolerate ALL opinions right? Even the 'far right' ideology that seems to be currently politically incorrect. Tolerance must go both ways, otherwise, we are also bullying people into silence.

From: "mweston dowagiacdl.org via Michlib-l" <michlib-l@mcls.org> To: michlib-l@mcls.org Sent: Wednesday, August 4, 2021 8:40:49 PM Subject: [Michlib-l] New equity and social justice principle added to ALA Code of Ethics

I'd like to support Karyn Ruley's concerns about ALA's most recent addition to their Code of Ethics. Reading through the first eight principles, and into the first sentence of the ninth, there is a sense of the universal and of the common humanity we share with ourselves and our patrons. "...all library users", "...each library user's rights", and "...the inherent dignity and rights of every person", changes dramatically in tone with "dismantle systemic and individual biases" and "advance racial and social justice".

Absolutely this is worthy of discussion, and this is the place for it.

Matt Weston, Library Director

Dowagiac District Library

211 Commercial St.

Dowagiac, MI 49047-1728

269-782-3826

_______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org https://mail3.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l

-- Jennifer Salgat Director Lake Odessa Community Library 1007 Fourth Avenue Lake Odessa MI 48849 616.374.4591

_______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org https://mail3.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l

-- *Teresa Chase* *Business Manager* *Lapeer District Library* *201 Village West Dr. S.* *tchase@lib.lapeer.org* <tchase@lib.lapeer.org> *www.library.lapeer.org* <http://www.library.lapeer.org> *(810) 664-9521 ext. 3111* *"Libraries are sacred time machines where knowledge flows and magic is eternal." ~Mari Barnes*

If you're requiring someone to self-identify their language as hate speech in order to think it qualifies, then you're never going to find any. Most hate-based groups rely on couched language and dog whistles in order to present a veneer of civility over their activities in order to try and frame themselves as holding reasonable viewpoints. So no, I would imagine his rental agreement didn't have any mention of hate speech. You can bet, however, that he did, in fact, "stop someone else from using the library." Your community was watching, and it took note of how important it was to you that hatred and extremism have a place in your library. There are plenty of people who wouldn't feel welcome after that. Connor Haines (He/Him/His) Fowlerville District Library (734) 239-2043

On August 5, 2021 1:30 PM Kat Boyer via Michlib-l <michlib-l@mcls.org> wrote:

I disagree. But that is because I've actually been the victim of someone trying to bully me to silence someone they suspected might engage in hate speech at my library. I firmly believe in someone's right to free speech and their right to use the library space as long as they abide by library rules and do not stop someone else from using the library. We had someone (who is a very extreme person) rent our meeting room. His rental agreement had no mention of hate speech. I was harassed in-person, on Facebook, through email, and at Board meetings, for at least a month because I was allowing this man to rent our space. I even mentioned ALA's information that we can not deny use of the space to someone based on their views, beliefs, or what we think they might say. The harassment kept up, night, day, phone calls, Board pressure.

It honestly was about enough to make me look for another job.

On Thu, Aug 5, 2021, 1:20 PM Teresa Chase via Michlib-l < michlib-l@mcls.org mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org > wrote:

> > Well said, Amber McLain.

...

I would also like to add, "tolerance must go both ways" is just a dog whistle to allow proponents of hate speech to say whatever they want in the name of their "personal beliefs." There is no place for that type of conduct in a public library system. To denounce said conduct is in no way "bullying people into silence." I strenuously object to that mischaracterization of what we are discussing.

On Thu, Aug 5, 2021 at 12:06 PM OJ Amber Mclain via Michlib-l < michlib-l@mcls.org mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org > wrote:

> > > No, there is no "agenda." This ninth addition to the code of ethics falls directly in line with EDI guidelines already set forth by the ALA, supported by MLA, and library institutions across the country. The groups singled out in this point are historically marginalized, their history has been censored, and their intrinsic identities - who they are BORN AS - make them targets for hate and abuse. Their very identities have been discussed to death and who they are has been deemed as less than which is unacceptable. This is not viewpoints and opinions. This is not about beliefs. These are people. People that are out patrons. The aspect about conduct is to prevent them from hateful conduct. I would be happy to provide the supporting documentation and data for why this is important. I recently did that research for Lakeland:

...

Amber McLainLibrary Director, Patmos Library

----- Original Message ----- From: IL Jennifer Salgat via Michlib-l < michlib-l@mcls.org mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org > To: mwestonhttp://dowagiacdl.org < mweston@dowagiacdl.org mailto:mweston@dowagiacdl.org > Cc: michlib-l@mcls.org mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org Sent: Thu, 05 Aug 2021 08:34:40 -0400 (EDT) Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] New equity and social justice principle added to ALA Code of Ethics

I agree there seems to be an agenda to that last part. To truly be inclusive and diverse, we need to be willing to tolerate ALL opinions right? Even the 'far right' ideology that seems to be currently politically incorrect. Tolerance must go both ways, otherwise, we are also bullying people into silence.

From: "mwestonhttp://dowagiacdl.org via Michlib-l" < michlib-l@mcls.org mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org > To: michlib-l@mcls.org mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org Sent: Wednesday, August 4, 2021 8:40:49 PM Subject: [Michlib-l] New equity and social justice principle added to ALA Code of Ethics

I'd like to support Karyn Ruley's concerns about ALA's most recent addition to their Code of Ethics. Reading through the first eight principles, and into the first sentence of the ninth, there is a sense of the universal and of the common humanity we share with ourselves and our patrons. "...all library users", "...each library user's rights", and "...the inherent dignity and rights of every person", changes dramatically in tone with "dismantle systemic and individual biases" and "advance racial and social justice".

Absolutely this is worthy of discussion, and this is the place for it.

Matt Weston, Library Director

Dowagiac District Library

211 Commercial St.

Dowagiac, MI 49047-1728

269-782-3826

_______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org mailto:Michlib-l@mcls.org https://mail3.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l

-- Jennifer Salgat Director Lake Odessa Community Library 1007 Fourth Avenue Lake Odessa MI 48849 616.374.4591

_______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org mailto:Michlib-l@mcls.org https://mail3.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l

> >

-- Teresa Chase Business Manager Lapeer District Library 201 Village West Dr. S. tchase@lib.lapeer.org mailto:tchase@lib.lapeer.org www.library.lapeer.org http://www.library.lapeer.org (810) 664-9521 ext. 3111

"Libraries are sacred time machines where knowledge flows and magic is eternal." ~Mari Barnes _______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org mailto:Michlib-l@mcls.org https://mail3.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l

> _______________________________________________

Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org https://mail3.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l

What I feel is that: 1. You've failed to address what concerns were actually raised to you about the speaker in question in favor of nebulously defining it as "bullying." 2. You trying to boil this down solely to race is an abdication of moral responsibility for your actions and their impacts. 3. "Stopping no one from attending," as you put it, is a common method of trying to gain mainstream acceptance for hate groups, much like trying to pull people into "debates" about which categories of people should be allowed to have rights. It also has nothing to do with the impact that hosting the event in question could have on how your library is perceived by targeted groups. 4. Using individuals associated with your own institution as arbiters of what qualifies as hate speech is a poor rebuttal to my assertion that it would impact your community. Connor Haines (He/Him/His) Fowlerville District Library (734) 239-2043

On August 5, 2021 3:07 PM Kat Boyer <librarykat.15@gmail.com> wrote:

So, you feel, as a white woman, that I should have stood in the way if a black man putting on a discussion about the black family because other white people came to me to complain? That is the rental that took place. The meeting room is on the second floor, he stopped no one from attending, and in fact my Board President and our Social Work Intern attended and no hate speech was present at the event.

But thank you for a good example of why some of us have concerns over the very last part of the ALA statement.

On Thu, Aug 5, 2021, 3:03 PM c.haines < c.haines@fowlervillelibrary.org mailto:c.haines@fowlervillelibrary.org > wrote:

> > If you're requiring someone to self-identify their language as hate speech in order to think it qualifies, then you're never going to find any. Most hate-based groups rely on couched language and dog whistles in order to present a veneer of civility over their activities in order to try and frame themselves as holding reasonable viewpoints. So no, I would imagine his rental agreement didn't have any mention of hate speech. You can bet, however, that he did, in fact, "stop someone else from using the library." Your community was watching, and it took note of how important it was to you that hatred and extremism have a place in your library. There are plenty of people who wouldn't feel welcome after that.

...

Connor Haines (He/Him/His)

Fowlerville District Library (734) 239-2043

> > > On August 5, 2021 1:30 PM Kat Boyer via Michlib-l < michlib-l@mcls.org mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org > wrote:

...

I disagree. But that is because I've actually been the victim of someone trying to bully me to silence someone they suspected might engage in hate speech at my library. I firmly believe in someone's right to free speech and their right to use the library space as long as they abide by library rules and do not stop someone else from using the library. We had someone (who is a very extreme person) rent our meeting room. His rental agreement had no mention of hate speech. I was harassed in-person, on Facebook, through email, and at Board meetings, for at least a month because I was allowing this man to rent our space. I even mentioned ALA's information that we can not deny use of the space to someone based on their views, beliefs, or what we think they might say. The harassment kept up, night, day, phone calls, Board pressure.

It honestly was about enough to make me look for another job.

On Thu, Aug 5, 2021, 1:20 PM Teresa Chase via Michlib-l < michlib-l@mcls.org mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org > wrote:

> > > > Well said, Amber McLain.

...

I would also like to add, "tolerance must go both ways" is just a dog whistle to allow proponents of hate speech to say whatever they want in the name of their "personal beliefs." There is no place for that type of conduct in a public library system. To denounce said conduct is in no way "bullying people into silence." I strenuously object to that mischaracterization of what we are discussing.

On Thu, Aug 5, 2021 at 12:06 PM OJ Amber Mclain via Michlib-l < michlib-l@mcls.org mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org > wrote:

> > > > > No, there is no "agenda." This ninth addition to the code of ethics falls directly in line with EDI guidelines already set forth by the ALA, supported by MLA, and library institutions across the country. The groups singled out in this point are historically marginalized, their history has been censored, and their intrinsic identities - who they are BORN AS - make them targets for hate and abuse. Their very identities have been discussed to death and who they are has been deemed as less than which is unacceptable. This is not viewpoints and opinions. This is not about beliefs. These are people. People that are out patrons. The aspect about conduct is to prevent them from hateful conduct. I would be happy to provide the supporting documentation and data for why this is important. I recently did that research for Lakeland:

...

Amber McLainLibrary Director, Patmos Library

----- Original Message ----- From: IL Jennifer Salgat via Michlib-l < michlib-l@mcls.org mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org > To: mwestonhttp://dowagiacdl.org < mweston@dowagiacdl.org mailto:mweston@dowagiacdl.org > Cc: michlib-l@mcls.org mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org Sent: Thu, 05 Aug 2021 08:34:40 -0400 (EDT) Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] New equity and social justice principle added to ALA Code of Ethics

I agree there seems to be an agenda to that last part. To truly be inclusive and diverse, we need to be willing to tolerate ALL opinions right? Even the 'far right' ideology that seems to be currently politically incorrect. Tolerance must go both ways, otherwise, we are also bullying people into silence.

From: "mwestonhttp://dowagiacdl.org via Michlib-l" < michlib-l@mcls.org mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org > To: michlib-l@mcls.org mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org Sent: Wednesday, August 4, 2021 8:40:49 PM Subject: [Michlib-l] New equity and social justice principle added to ALA Code of Ethics

I'd like to support Karyn Ruley's concerns about ALA's most recent addition to their Code of Ethics. Reading through the first eight principles, and into the first sentence of the ninth, there is a sense of the universal and of the common humanity we share with ourselves and our patrons. "...all library users", "...each library user's rights", and "...the inherent dignity and rights of every person", changes dramatically in tone with "dismantle systemic and individual biases" and "advance racial and social justice".

Absolutely this is worthy of discussion, and this is the place for it.

Matt Weston, Library Director

Dowagiac District Library

211 Commercial St.

Dowagiac, MI 49047-1728

269-782-3826

_______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org mailto:Michlib-l@mcls.org https://mail3.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l

-- Jennifer Salgat Director Lake Odessa Community Library 1007 Fourth Avenue Lake Odessa MI 48849 616.374.4591

_______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org mailto:Michlib-l@mcls.org https://mail3.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l

> > > >

-- Teresa Chase Business Manager Lapeer District Library 201 Village West Dr. S. tchase@lib.lapeer.org mailto:tchase@lib.lapeer.org www.library.lapeer.org http://www.library.lapeer.org (810) 664-9521 ext. 3111

"Libraries are sacred time machines where knowledge flows and magic is eternal." ~Mari Barnes _______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org mailto:Michlib-l@mcls.org https://mail3.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l

> > > _______________________________________________

Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org mailto:Michlib-l@mcls.org https://mail3.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l

> >

>

This is a deep and fascinating topic to explore. Like the rest of the country, our profession struggles to find a means to communicate effectively about race, inequality and social justice. Case in point, this week. There is probably an additional layer of discussion for librarians loosely defined as “mission creep”. I believe some of the reaction might stem from this…? My own point of view (of course!): Over the years, I’ve read about libraries in the south that once regularly denied access to people of color, without batting an eye. I’m betting ALA’s code of ethics espoused the value of publicly shared information even while individual institutions were behaving reprehensibly, and contrary to those “codes”, whatever they were. It seems to me there is a bit of stridency in some of ALA’s language, developed over the last few years. Perhaps, as an organization that represents us in our current form as well as our past, it is making up for its (and our) previous sins. Interestingly, I was trying to find the 1939 code of ethics (I think this was the first), and came across a study done in the ‘90’s about current attitudes towards ALA’s code. The upshot is that the majority of librarians surveyed had no idea it existed. At least in Michigan, I think we’ve solved that problem! Here’s the study: https://www.lib.niu.edu/1995/il9503140.html On Thu, Aug 5, 2021 at 4:09 PM c.haines via Michlib-l <michlib-l@mcls.org> wrote:

If you're requiring someone to self-identify their language as hate speech in order to think it qualifies, then you're never going to find any. Most hate-based groups rely on couched language and dog whistles in order to present a veneer of civility over their activities in order to try and frame themselves as holding reasonable viewpoints. So no, I would imagine his rental agreement didn't have any mention of hate speech. You can bet, however, that he did, in fact, "stop someone else from using the library." Your community was watching, and it took note of how important it was to you that hatred and extremism have a place in your library. There are plenty of people who wouldn't feel welcome after that.

Connor Haines *(He/Him/His)*

Fowlerville District Library (734) 239-2043

On August 5, 2021 1:30 PM Kat Boyer via Michlib-l <michlib-l@mcls.org> wrote:

I disagree. But that is because I've actually been the victim of someone trying to bully me to silence someone they suspected might engage in hate speech at my library. I firmly believe in someone's right to free speech and their right to use the library space as long as they abide by library rules and do not stop someone else from using the library. We had someone (who is a very extreme person) rent our meeting room. His rental agreement had no mention of hate speech. I was harassed in-person, on Facebook, through email, and at Board meetings, for at least a month because I was allowing this man to rent our space. I even mentioned ALA's information that we can not deny use of the space to someone based on their views, beliefs, or what we think they might say. The harassment kept up, night, day, phone calls, Board pressure.

It honestly was about enough to make me look for another job.

On Thu, Aug 5, 2021, 1:20 PM Teresa Chase via Michlib-l < michlib-l@mcls.org> wrote:

Well said, Amber McLain.

I would also like to add, "tolerance must go both ways" is just a dog whistle to allow proponents of hate speech to say whatever they want in the name of their "personal beliefs." There is no place for that type of conduct in a public library system. To denounce said conduct is in no way "bullying people into silence." I strenuously object to that mischaracterization of what we are discussing.

On Thu, Aug 5, 2021 at 12:06 PM OJ Amber Mclain via Michlib-l < michlib-l@mcls.org> wrote:

No, there is no "agenda." This ninth addition to the code of ethics falls directly in line with EDI guidelines already set forth by the ALA, supported by MLA, and library institutions across the country. The groups singled out in this point are historically marginalized, their history has been censored, and their intrinsic identities - who they are BORN AS - make them targets for hate and abuse. Their very identities have been discussed to death and who they are has been deemed as less than which is unacceptable. This is not viewpoints and opinions. This is not about beliefs. These are people. People that are out patrons. The aspect about conduct is to prevent them from hateful conduct. I would be happy to provide the supporting documentation and data for why this is important. I recently did that research for Lakeland:

Amber McLainLibrary Director, Patmos Library

----- Original Message ----- From: IL Jennifer Salgat via Michlib-l < michlib-l@mcls.org> To: mweston dowagiacdl.org < mweston@dowagiacdl.org> Cc: michlib-l@mcls.org Sent: Thu, 05 Aug 2021 08:34:40 -0400 (EDT) Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] New equity and social justice principle added to ALA Code of Ethics

I agree there seems to be an agenda to that last part. To truly be inclusive and diverse, we need to be willing to tolerate ALL opinions right? Even the 'far right' ideology that seems to be currently politically incorrect. Tolerance must go both ways, otherwise, we are also bullying people into silence.

From: "mweston dowagiacdl.org via Michlib-l" < michlib-l@mcls.org> To: michlib-l@mcls.org Sent: Wednesday, August 4, 2021 8:40:49 PM Subject: [Michlib-l] New equity and social justice principle added to ALA Code of Ethics

I'd like to support Karyn Ruley's concerns about ALA's most recent addition to their Code of Ethics. Reading through the first eight principles, and into the first sentence of the ninth, there is a sense of the universal and of the common humanity we share with ourselves and our patrons. "...all library users", "...each library user's rights", and "...the inherent dignity and rights of every person", changes dramatically in tone with "dismantle systemic and individual biases" and "advance racial and social justice".

Absolutely this is worthy of discussion, and this is the place for it.

Matt Weston, Library Director

Dowagiac District Library

211 Commercial St.

Dowagiac, MI 49047-1728

269-782-3826

_______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org https://mail3.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l

-- Jennifer Salgat Director Lake Odessa Community Library 1007 Fourth Avenue Lake Odessa MI 48849 616.374.4591

_______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org https://mail3.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l

-- *Teresa Chase* *Business Manager* *Lapeer District Library* *201 Village West Dr. S.* *tchase@lib.lapeer.org* <tchase@lib.lapeer.org> *www.library.lapeer.org* <http://www.library.lapeer.org> *(810) 664-9521 ext. 3111*

*"Libraries are sacred time machines where knowledge flows and magic is eternal." ~Mari Barnes* _______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org https://mail3.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l

_______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org https://mail3.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l

_______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org https://mail3.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l

-- Sharon Crotser-Toy Director *Watervliet District Library* 333 N. Main Street Watervliet, MI 49098 269-463-6382 Connects People, Inspires Ideas, Transforms Lives

Respectfully, I don't think the new entry in the Code of Ethics is "vastly different" to the previous eight, nor should it drastically impact any service we provide that has been covered by the previous tenets. Here is the much-discussed last sentence, copied directly from the ALA website: We work to recognize and dismantle systemic and individual biases; to confront inequity and oppression; to enhance diversity and inclusion; and to advance racial and social justice in our libraries, communities, profession, and associations through awareness, advocacy, education, collaboration, services, and allocation of resources and spaces. Biases and equity are named explicitly in tenet 1. The rights of our colleagues, who we know are not all straight and white, to employment that protects their welfare are supported explicitly in tenet 5. We have theoretically already been activists under these existing tenets. What exactly is the problem with reiterating our support for unbiased information, equitable access, and inclusive spaces for our colleagues and communities here? What exact phrases are opponents of this tenet so uncomfortable with? I realize people may not be comfortable stating for the record which phrases make them uneasy. I only ask that you (if you are one of those people) unpack that uneasiness within yourself, even if you don't want to share it here. Talking about racism/sexism/homophobia/etc is not part of the problem. It's the first step to finally eliminating these evils. Jennifer Noble Adult & Teen Services Librarian Adrian District Library On Fri, Aug 6, 2021, 4:59 PM Kelsey Boldt via Michlib-l <michlib-l@mcls.org> wrote:

Hello,

I'd like to just throw my two cents in because I've been following this thread with great interest.

I tend to agree with our colleagues Karyn, Matt, Jennifer, and Kat on the addition of the ninth tenet in the ALA code of ethics. In particular, I agree with Matt that the tone of the last sentence of the new addition is vastly different than the the previous eight. It implies the need for certain types of activism in the workplace that directly impacts carrying out many of the other tenets. Particularly, tenet six refers to avoiding the advancement of private interests at the expense of library users and colleagues. I understand that some people believe in the type of activism inferred in the new ethic. However, this may not be the case for all employees or all library users. I like the simplicity of the previous codes so that any and all viewpoints can be expressed by staff and users alike.

What's more, the first sentence, to my mind, is redundant. The first, third, fifth tenets directly reference providing unbiased and respectful service to all library users and colleagues - which I would argue inherently affirms a person's dignity and rights.

This is why I believe the ninth tenet is rendered unnecessary. I can't speak to the history of the established code of ethics of the ALA and whether or not we have adhered to them as an industry with the honesty and respect claimed, but I think the first eight tenets listed in the ALA code of ethics are worthy of striving toward. Righting the wrongs of the past require us to live up to the lofty goals we've set for ourselves rather than create new language to speak directly to the issues of the current day.

I dislike the feeling of being misunderstood, and I think that is what has compelled me to add to this thread. I can't speak for anyone but myself, but I think generally that anyone who is against the addition to the ALA code of ethics is not against equality, subliminally or blatantly. I think we are against the notion that we need new language to complicate the first eight tenets of the ALA code of ethics.

Some of the less respectful comments in this thread are, I believe, exactly why these sorts of threads materialize and why people feel they need to make strong public declarations as opposed to have reasonable and malleable discussions. I'd love to have the discussion though. I'd really love to hear from those who like the new addition. Would you share practices that you have implemented or plan to implement in order to support the ninth code? I understand the ALA cannot do so, but perhaps getting a sense of what this code would look like in practice might help me to better understand or even change my mind.

I'd like to add that I have yet to work with anyone who does not treat people with kindness and respect. I have yet to meet a fellow colleague outside of our little library who does not do the same. I rarely meet patrons who do not also strive to treat staff and fellow patrons with respect as well. With that said, I am not trying to imply that there is never room for improvement or that just because something hasn't happened to me or in front of me that it doesn't happen.

I'd like to end just by saying that, regardless of whether we agree or not on the issues brought up in this thread, I think discussion is healthy and my assumption, until proven wrong, is that the people I work alongside in this industry are professionals who care deeply about the communities they serve. And I have yet to be proven wrong.

Thanks so much and have a great weekend,

Kelsey Boldt Assistant Librarian Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library 317 N. Main St. Ishpeming, MI 49849

_______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org https://mail3.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l

Kelsey, Thank you for posting your thoughts and encouraging the group to engage in conversation rather than making any personal attacks on individuals or groups. The addition of the 9th principle is important to me because it is explicit in identifying that there is work to be done by libraries. It is important to be explicit specifically because not everyone thinks it is important and, as this discussion shows, some feel it should not be part of our work. It is explicit so that it is understood that even if individuals among us (perhaps even a majority) have not experienced a lack of dignity, or rights, or biases, or oppression, some individuals have had a less favorable experience, even at our libraries. If we do not take actions to address inequity in our domain then we are contributing to inequality in society as a whole. Explicitly doing social and racial justice work to include the marginalized does not distract or take away from our work to have services for everyone. It does, however, send an explicit message to the marginalized that our services are for them, that they are included, that libraries should support diversity, and that we are working on providing services that bring about equity. The code of ethics calls for equity, not equality. Equality would be to treat everyone the same whereas equity means to take action to bring about equality since there are demonstrable inequalities historically and in reality today. Laws make many groups, but not all, equal; equality by law does not necessarily bring about equity of access, resources, and services. Yes, there are a lot of nice people in libraries and in our communities but having nice library personnel does not bring about change in equitable services. The 9th principle is explicitly stating that although the other principles in the code of ethics call for equity we have to actively work to make changes that make equity a reality. Good, nice people at libraries are starting to incorporate processes, policies, and programs in their organizations so that we can work on including everyone because stating that libraries treat everyone equally is not enough. The Library Network is working on making demonstrable changes to help our libraries take actions to incorporate principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion. We are doing the same, internally at our cooperative offices. We have scheduled sessions this past year and have more coming up to have discussions and workshops to help bring understanding and awareness. Further sessions will help us to begin work to self-assess and start to identify how we can make changes. Our forthcoming workshop series is meant to help us identify individuals who will help us form a team to champion this ongoing work as we move forward. Sincerely, -Steve Steven K. Bowers Executive Director The Library Network (248) 536-3100 x107 ----- Original Message ----- From: "michlib-l@mcls.org" <michlib-l@mcls.org> To: "michlib-l@mcls.org" <michlib-l@mcls.org> Sent: Friday, August 6, 2021 3:17:23 PM Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] New equity and social justice principle added to ALA Code of Ethics Hello, I'd like to just throw my two cents in because I've been following this thread with great interest. I tend to agree with our colleagues Karyn, Matt, Jennifer, and Kat on the addition of the ninth tenet in the ALA code of ethics. In particular, I agree with Matt that the tone of the last sentence of the new addition is vastly different than the the previous eight. It implies the need for certain types of activism in the workplace that directly impacts carrying out many of the other tenets. Particularly, tenet six refers to avoiding the advancement of private interests at the expense of library users and colleagues. I understand that some people believe in the type of activism inferred in the new ethic. However, this may not be the case for all employees or all library users. I like the simplicity of the previous codes so that any and all viewpoints can be expressed by staff and users alike. What's more, the first sentence, to my mind, is redundant. The first, third, fifth tenets directly reference providing unbiased and respectful service to all library users and colleagues - which I would argue inherently affirms a person's dignity and rights. This is why I believe the ninth tenet is rendered unnecessary. I can't speak to the history of the established code of ethics of the ALA and whether or not we have adhered to them as an industry with the honesty and respect claimed, but I think the first eight tenets listed in the ALA code of ethics are worthy of striving toward. Righting the wrongs of the past require us to live up to the lofty goals we've set for ourselves rather than create new language to speak directly to the issues of the current day. I dislike the feeling of being misunderstood, and I think that is what has compelled me to add to this thread. I can't speak for anyone but myself, but I think generally that anyone who is against the addition to the ALA code of ethics is not against equality, subliminally or blatantly. I think we are against the notion that we need new language to complicate the first eight tenets of the ALA code of ethics. Some of the less respectful comments in this thread are, I believe, exactly why these sorts of threads materialize and why people feel they need to make strong public declarations as opposed to have reasonable and malleable discussions. I'd love to have the discussion though. I'd really love to hear from those who like the new addition. Would you share practices that you have implemented or plan to implement in order to support the ninth code? I understand the ALA cannot do so, but perhaps getting a sense of what this code would look like in practice might help me to better understand or even change my mind. I'd like to add that I have yet to work with anyone who does not treat people with kindness and respect. I have yet to meet a fellow colleague outside of our little library who does not do the same. I rarely meet patrons who do not also strive to treat staff and fellow patrons with respect as well. With that said, I am not trying to imply that there is never room for improvement or that just because something hasn't happened to me or in front of me that it doesn't happen. I'd like to end just by saying that, regardless of whether we agree or not on the issues brought up in this thread, I think discussion is healthy and my assumption, until proven wrong, is that the people I work alongside in this industry are professionals who care deeply about the communities they serve. And I have yet to be proven wrong. Thanks so much and have a great weekend, Kelsey Boldt Assistant Librarian Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library 317 N. Main St. Ishpeming, MI 49849 _______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__mail3.mcls.org_mailman_listinfo_michlib-2Dl&d=DwICAg&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=1EE0AJJXmcChMmY3NQmVorz8hJsAzpJPbIk7yFfP8C0&m=8_rnATZS3iDsEbm4X6ydluifGJmaeqFm0yc5IdiFCLk&s=Nb10kpQMf3641IHByMGnT_yffvsf0G345XsT4JomJqo&e=

I agree with Matt. I see only a concern with that part of the addition and echo Matt's concern. On Thu, Aug 5, 2021, 12:07 PM OJ Amber Mclain via Michlib-l < michlib-l@mcls.org> wrote:

No, there is no "agenda." This ninth addition to the code of ethics falls directly in line with EDI guidelines already set forth by the ALA, supported by MLA, and library institutions across the country. The groups singled out in this point are historically marginalized, their history has been censored, and their intrinsic identities - who they are BORN AS - make them targets for hate and abuse. Their very identities have been discussed to death and who they are has been deemed as less than which is unacceptable. This is not viewpoints and opinions. This is not about beliefs. These are people. People that are out patrons. The aspect about conduct is to prevent them from hateful conduct. I would be happy to provide the supporting documentation and data for why this is important. I recently did that research for Lakeland:

Amber McLainLibrary Director, Patmos Library

----- Original Message ----- From: IL Jennifer Salgat via Michlib-l <michlib-l@mcls.org> To: mweston dowagiacdl.org <mweston@dowagiacdl.org> Cc: michlib-l@mcls.org Sent: Thu, 05 Aug 2021 08:34:40 -0400 (EDT) Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] New equity and social justice principle added to ALA Code of Ethics

I agree there seems to be an agenda to that last part. To truly be inclusive and diverse, we need to be willing to tolerate ALL opinions right? Even the 'far right' ideology that seems to be currently politically incorrect. Tolerance must go both ways, otherwise, we are also bullying people into silence.

From: "mweston dowagiacdl.org via Michlib-l" <michlib-l@mcls.org> To: michlib-l@mcls.org Sent: Wednesday, August 4, 2021 8:40:49 PM Subject: [Michlib-l] New equity and social justice principle added to ALA Code of Ethics

I'd like to support Karyn Ruley's concerns about ALA's most recent addition to their Code of Ethics. Reading through the first eight principles, and into the first sentence of the ninth, there is a sense of the universal and of the common humanity we share with ourselves and our patrons. "...all library users", "...each library user's rights", and "...the inherent dignity and rights of every person", changes dramatically in tone with "dismantle systemic and individual biases" and "advance racial and social justice".

Absolutely this is worthy of discussion, and this is the place for it.

Matt Weston, Library Director

Dowagiac District Library

211 Commercial St.

Dowagiac, MI 49047-1728

269-782-3826

_______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org https://mail3.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l

-- Jennifer Salgat Director Lake Odessa Community Library 1007 Fourth Avenue Lake Odessa MI 48849 616.374.4591

_______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org https://mail3.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l

Thank you, Shelby. Well said. On Thu, Aug 5, 2021 at 2:32 PM Shelby Fox-Purrier-Rivera via Michlib-l < michlib-l@mcls.org> wrote:

There are no both sides to human rights and dealing with oppression. If worrying about protecting and advocating for our marginalized staff and patrons seems like an agenda to you, then that's because you're fortunate enough that those issues don't affect you. This shouldn't be an issue, this should be seen as a long overdue addition to our code of ethics.

This thread is a perfect example of the cycle of outrage of our society, where anything that changes even in the slightest to help those who have been/are collectively harmed it's suddenly some sort of agenda. As if the status quo, which has been perpetuated AT THEIR EXPENSE, isn't some agenda on its own.

If this addition to the code of ethics bothers you, then I am frankly glad, and I would hope it initiates some introspection about why looking out for our peers is such a problem for you.

Shelby Fox-Purrier-Rivera (He/Him) Teen Services Librarian Commerce Township Community Library 248-669-8108 ext. 109

On Thu, Aug 5, 2021 at 1:23 PM Kat Boyer via Michlib-l <michlib-l@mcls.org> wrote:

...

I agree with Matt. I see only a concern with that part of the addition and echo Matt's concern.

On Thu, Aug 5, 2021, 12:07 PM OJ Amber Mclain via Michlib-l < michlib-l@mcls.org> wrote:

...

No, there is no "agenda." This ninth addition to the code of ethics falls directly in line with EDI guidelines already set forth by the ALA, supported by MLA, and library institutions across the country. The groups singled out in this point are historically marginalized, their history has been censored, and their intrinsic identities - who they are BORN AS - make them targets for hate and abuse. Their very identities have been discussed to death and who they are has been deemed as less than which is unacceptable. This is not viewpoints and opinions. This is not about beliefs. These are people. People that are out patrons. The aspect about conduct is to prevent them from hateful conduct. I would be happy to provide the supporting documentation and data for why this is important. I recently did that research for Lakeland:

Amber McLainLibrary Director, Patmos Library

----- Original Message ----- From: IL Jennifer Salgat via Michlib-l <michlib-l@mcls.org> To: mweston dowagiacdl.org <mweston@dowagiacdl.org> Cc: michlib-l@mcls.org Sent: Thu, 05 Aug 2021 08:34:40 -0400 (EDT) Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] New equity and social justice principle added to ALA Code of Ethics

I agree there seems to be an agenda to that last part. To truly be inclusive and diverse, we need to be willing to tolerate ALL opinions right? Even the 'far right' ideology that seems to be currently politically incorrect. Tolerance must go both ways, otherwise, we are also bullying people into silence.

From: "mweston dowagiacdl.org via Michlib-l" <michlib-l@mcls.org> To: michlib-l@mcls.org Sent: Wednesday, August 4, 2021 8:40:49 PM Subject: [Michlib-l] New equity and social justice principle added to ALA Code of Ethics

I'd like to support Karyn Ruley's concerns about ALA's most recent addition to their Code of Ethics. Reading through the first eight principles, and into the first sentence of the ninth, there is a sense of the universal and of the common humanity we share with ourselves and our patrons. "...all library users", "...each library user's rights", and "...the inherent dignity and rights of every person", changes dramatically in tone with "dismantle systemic and individual biases" and "advance racial and social justice".

Absolutely this is worthy of discussion, and this is the place for it.

Matt Weston, Library Director

Dowagiac District Library

211 Commercial St.

Dowagiac, MI 49047-1728

269-782-3826

_______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org https://mail3.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l

-- Jennifer Salgat Director Lake Odessa Community Library 1007 Fourth Avenue Lake Odessa MI 48849 616.374.4591

_______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org https://mail3.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l

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In the adjustment of policies, library to library, I do believe that study- or evidence-based policies aid in the process of ensuring a more equitable public library space. If you'll notice, however, the language used throughout the ALA Code of Ethics doesn't focus on specifics. Vaguery abounds. Such is the way with codes. What seems clear to me in the wording (frank as it seems) of the additional 9th Code is the room to operate inherent to such vague speech--"to *recognize* and *dismantle*...biases; to *confront* inequity and oppression; to *enhance* diversity and inclusion; and to *advance* racial and social justice" et al (emphasis mine) presents an opportunity for library leadership to dig deeper, to research "studies or other evidence", in an overall effort to "adjust our policies" that ought to indeed "list specific behaviors" that will ensure what we're aiming to do in public libraries. Concrete verbs (recognize, dismantle, confront, enhance, advance) connote a more serious tone, sure; however, the "systemic and individual biases" or "inequity and oppression" or "diversity and inclusion" or "racial and social justice" are extremely vague adjectives meant to grant us as professionals, regardless of rank or tenure, the opportunity to ask ourselves the hardest question of all. "How fair am I?" From there, a wellspring of other such questions will surface and answers abound--but these answers you can find by seeking them out. And this is something which we ALL must do! Myself, a queer and black library worker, included. *Anthony Isom (they/them/theirs)* Youth Services Librarian Assistant Adrian District Library 143 East Maumee Street Adrian MI 49221 aisom@adrian.lib.mi.us On Mon, Aug 9, 2021 at 8:04 AM mweston dowagiacdl.org < mweston@dowagiacdl.org> wrote:

Hi Anthony,

Thank you for acknowledging the shift in tone with the new code. Do you have studies or other evidence to share showing library behavior policies being applied differently to white patrons than black patrons? If so, wouldn't it be more effective to adjust our policies to be less subjective and instead list specific behaviors? I am certainly willing to look for this evidence, and I appreciate your willingness to discuss.

Thanks, Matt Weston Dowagiac District Library

Get Outlook for Android <https://aka.ms/AAb9ysg> ------------------------------ *From:* Anthony Isom <aisom@adrian.lib.mi.us> *Sent:* Friday, August 6, 2021 12:48:31 PM *To:* mweston dowagiacdl.org <mweston@dowagiacdl.org> *Cc:* michlib-l@mcls.org <michlib-l@mcls.org> *Subject:* Re: [Michlib-l] New equity and social justice principle added to ALA Code of Ethics

Matt,

Your argument about the language use in the Code of Ethics runs rather shallow, I'm afraid. Given that a cishet black male patron who misuses library policy, or is even perceived as misusing library policy, to the degree that library staff considers it "safe" to involve local law enforcement will be handled differently than if a cishet white male patron misuses library policy to an equal degree, "all library users" aren't experiencing the world outside of the library with any sort of equity, therefore "the inherent dignity and rights of every person" have been violated before the cishet black male person has even sets foot inside the library. In other words: the shift in tone is necessary. One cannot use easy language or soft tones to rid our public spaces of the sort of behavior that creates toxic environments for entire communities of people who've been, both in recent and distant history, robbed of their "inherent dignity"--inside as well as outside of library spaces. It is important, then, that the American Library Association places within their Code of Ethics a statement which vows to assert the necessary social uplift of our public library spaces, so that staff (such as myself, queer and black) and patrons (such as I once was, still queer and still black) may claim more fully "the inherent dignity and rights of every person" and actually stand equal to "all library users".

*Anthony Isom (they/them/theirs)* Youth Services Librarian Assistant Adrian District Library 143 East Maumee Street Adrian MI 49221 aisom@adrian.lib.mi.us

On Thu, Aug 5, 2021 at 8:03 AM mweston dowagiacdl.org via Michlib-l < michlib-l@mcls.org> wrote:

I'd like to support Karyn Ruley's concerns about ALA's most recent addition to their Code of Ethics. Reading through the first eight principles, and into the first sentence of the ninth, there is a sense of the universal and of the common humanity we share with ourselves and our patrons. "...all library users", "...each library user's rights", and "...the inherent dignity and rights of every person", changes dramatically in tone with "dismantle systemic and individual biases" and "advance racial and social justice".

Absolutely this is worthy of discussion, and this is the place for it.

Matt Weston, Library Director

Dowagiac District Library

211 Commercial St.

Dowagiac, MI 49047-1728

269-782-3826

_______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org https://mail3.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l