Reconsideration of Library Materials Policy

The University Libraries consider many criteria before acquiring new resources. The focus for the collection is to support the university curriculum for academic programs and the research initiatives of faculty, staff, and students. The Libraries strive to include a diverse range of physical and electronic resources to serve the varied needs and interests of the campus community. Additionally, the Libraries uphold the American Library Association’s (ALA) Library Bill of Rights and Freedom to Read Statement in addition to the Freedom to View Statement originally drafted by the American Film and Video Association. Murray State faculty also are responsible to “protect students’ academic freedom” (Murray State Faculty Handbook, Code of Professional Ethics 2.9.2 #2).

To maintain the collection, we may remove outdated materials, but we do not suppress or remove materials that individuals may find controversial or inappropriate. While the Libraries does not endorse the ideologies, images, or language found in such cases and rejects oppressive views that may be reflected in our collections, items like these are made publicly available to provide an accurate and complete historical record. They are important educational and research resources and provide opportunities for contemporary and future entities seeking accountability and transparency.

Feedback from the Murray State community plays a role in this process. The Libraries consider feedback about the following: inaccurate, harmful, or offensive content/language; incorrect designation or description of culturally sensitive items, copyright or privacy concerns, or errors in an item’s description and or metadata. If a current student, faculty, or staff member has concerns about an item, they may fill out a Reconsideration Request Form. We do not guarantee that changes can or will be implemented, but we welcome recommendations.

Adapted from University of Reno Libraries website.

Reconsideration Process

1. Patron submits a Reconsideration Request Form to the University Libraries Dean’s Office. Only requests from current students, staff, and faculty will be reviewed. The item in question will remain available to patrons during the reconsideration process.
2. The Dean’s Office will notify the patron that the form was received.
3. The completed form will be reviewed by the appropriate library staff in accordance with our Collection Development Policy.
4. The appropriate library staff will make a decision and notify the patron within four weeks of the library receiving the request.
5. If the patron is not satisfied with the decision, the patron may submit a written appeal to the Dean of Libraries. Appeals must be filed within 10 working days of the date of the decision.
6. The Dean of Libraries will review both the original request for reconsideration and the decision made by the librarian(s).
7. The Dean of Libraries will make a final decision and notify the patron of the decision within four weeks from the date of the appeal. All decisions made by the Dean of Libraries in response to an appeal are final. Materials shall not be eligible for further re-evaluation.