MASL Book Challenge Statement

The freedom to read is essential to our democracy. Libraries play a pivotal role in ensuring this freedom.   The Missouri Association of School Librarians (MASL) recognizes this role and adheres to the American Librarian Association (ALA)  Freedom To Read Statement and The Library Bill of Rights.  As professional librarians, we recognize and support the ALA Core Values of Librarianship, including the values of diversity and access, as well as the commitment to inclusion through the American Association of School Librarians Shared Foundations.

MASL strives to recognize the diverse experiences of students in Missouri and is devoted to the selection and promotion of quality literature.  Books should allow student readers to have a valued reflection of themselves as well as a view beyond their own experiences. 

MASL believes that students should have choices in what books they read.  MASL affirms that while each parent has a right and responsibility to determine what their own child reads, parents do not have the authority to infringe on the rights of other parents to determine what their child can read.

MASL will continue to demonstrate our commitment to these values as we strive to defend reading choice, and provide support to Missouri school libraries when faced with book challenges. 

MASL is here to assist in matters related to censorship or intellectual freedom.  If you have questions, please contact the MASL office at info@maslonline.org.