Examines presence of moral viewpoints in young adult literature, suggesting that while literature can raise questions and acknowledge contradictions implicit in any moral decision, young people can only look inward for conclusions. Explicit didacticism (instructive qualities concerning moral, ethical, or religious matters) and examples of…

Discusses the censorship of Mark Twain's "Huckleberry Finn" since it was first published in 1885. Highlights include Twain's public image, viewpoints of censors, the banning of the book and school censorship cases, and the celebration of the centennial of "Huckleberry Finn." Nine references are cited. (EJS)

Explores the issue of intellectual freedom and the role of the library in the community, and the extent to which community attitudes and values should influence library policy. A specific incident involving a public library exhibit of materials on gay rights in Durham, North Carolina, is described. (CLB)

Examines the relationship between the responsibility of librarians to reject materials that threaten the moral and social values of the community and support for intellectual freedom by the library profession. Criteria that justify the censorship of materials are identified and discussed. (16 references) (CLB)

This book presents descriptions of 26 young adult titles that have been frequent targets of censorship attempts. Each entry provides an annotation for the book in question; examples of recent challenges; citations to reviews of the book and background articles; a list of awards garnered by the book or its author; references about the author;…

Discusses the role of librarians in terms of their responsibility to examine the social content of children's literature and then decide whether that content is appropriate for a particular child based on possible biases. (CLB)

The first article describes an eight-year censorship battle and offers practical advice for the personal survival of the school librarian involved in such a situation. The second offers suggestions for preparing the best possible defense, including steps to be taken before an incident occurs as well as when it occurs, and helpful resources and…

This manual is designed to help librarians anticipate and resist censorship of library materials, how to handle complaints, and how to write legislators effectively. Part I, "Library Bill of Rights," and Part II, "Protecting the Freedom to Read," present the text and historical development of the American Library Association's…