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Intellectual Freedom
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Intellectual Freedom Resources

The Texas Library Association (TLA) holds that the freedom to read is a corollary of the constitutional guarantee of freedom of the press. Freedom of choice in selecting materials is a necessary safeguard to the freedom to read and shall be protected against irresponsible attempts by self-appointed censors to abridge it.

You can also use TLA Engage to seek feedback or advice from other members. We understand that this is a stressful and challenging time, please reach out to us with questions at any time.

TLA Intellectual Freedom Helpline

The TLA Intellectual Freedom Helpline will connect librarians facing materials challenges or with questions about intellectual freedom issues to other Texas librarians who have volunteered to share their expertise, resources, and support. The Helpline coordinators who assign the cases will make every effort to match individuals to volunteers with similar library experience. Allow three business days for your request to be processed and a volunteer to contact you. If you have an emergency issue, please contact Wendy Woodland at TLA.

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Professional Liability Insurance

TLA partners with Barclay Insurance to offer professional liability insurance at a discounted premium rate ($42) to TLA members. This policy will guard against financial devastation in the event you are named in a serious lawsuit arising in the course and scope of your responsibilities as an educator. The policy year is January 1 – December 31. You may add the policy to your membership when you join or renew (online or via the membership form PDF). If you have already joined or renewed your TLA membership for 2022, you may add the insurance to your membership by updating your membership selections in Members Only. Questions? Contact Christy Reynolds at TLA.

Texas Resources

TLA Statements

Reporting Censorship

Any library employee or library supporter who knows of a complaint or challenge is encouraged to contact the chair of  TLA’s Intellectual Freedom Committee (IFC) and report such incidents to the American Library Association’s Office for Intellectual Freedom.  You may report these incidents anonymously.  You can also contact the TLA office (512-328-1518) for the current IFC chair’s contact information.

ALA Office of Intellectual Freedom

The staff of the ALA Office for Intellectual Freedom is available to answer questions or provide assistance to librarians, trustees, educators and the public about intellectual freedom issues and resources. Areas of assistance include policy development, First Amendment issues, and professional ethics. Inquiries can be directed via email to oif@ala.org or via phone at (312) 280-4226.

General Resources

Preparing for and Responding to Challenges

Policies

Communications

Laws & Court Decisions

Other Organizations

The contents of this website are intended to convey general information only and not to provide legal advice or opinions. The contents of the website and the posting and viewing of the information on this website should not be construed as, and should not be relied upon for, legal advice in any particular circumstance or fact situation. The information presented on this website may not reflect the most current legal developments. No action should be taken in reliance on the information contained on this website and we disclaim all liability in respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the contents of this site to the fullest extent permitted by law. An attorney should be contacted for advice on specific legal issues.