Describes dominant political trends in librarianship, including the adoption of political neutrality as a means toward acquiring professional status, conservatism, and a willingness to allow government and business to define professional roles. It is argued that values of equity and public service, not the imperatives of technocracy and…

Reviews the social responsibilities traditionally recognized as directly related to librarianship and explores the question of whether librarians should take positions on broader social issues. Arguments on both sides are presented and some of the philosophical and professional concerns that should be addressed are discussed. (20 references) (CLB)