The King County Library System Celebrates the Freedom to Read

The King County Library System (KCLS) launched a year-long campaign on October 2 to celebrate the Freedom to Read and promote the importance of Intellectual Freedom.  

Intellectual Freedom is a widely held concept among public libraries and a basic right of our democratic society. The American Library Association (ALA) states that Intellectual Freedom:

• Ensures that all community members have free, equitable and confidential access to information
• Gives patrons the right to think for themselves
• Respects individual dignity and self-rule

KCLS values Intellectual Freedom and believes that everyone has the freedom to read, listen to and view content of any kind within the law. KCLS offers an extensive range of constitutionally protected opinions, perspectives and viewpoints to serve individual needs while supporting the broader needs of King County communities. Learn more about your right to access ideas and information, and how to get involved in KCLS’ Freedom to Read campaign at kcls.org/intellectual-freedom.

“The Freedom to Read is a First Amendment Right,” stated KCLS Director of Collection Management Services Tracey Thompson. “Rather than defend access to specific titles, we defend your right to access information and materials of your own choosing. Other individuals, groups or the government cannot, and should not, decide what is right for you.”