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From: dws@mit-eddie.UUCP
Newsgroups: alt.flame
Subject: barriers to library access
Message-ID: <7164@eddie.MIT.EDU>
Date: Wed, 14-Oct-87 01:58:16 EDT
Article-I.D.: eddie.7164
Posted: Wed Oct 14 01:58:16 1987
Date-Received: Fri, 16-Oct-87 21:51:07 EDT
Reply-To: dws@eddie.MIT.EDU (Don W. Saklad)
Distribution: usa
Organization: MIT, EE/CS Computer Facilities, Cambridge, MA
Lines: 15
Keywords: internal censorship library barrier obstacle
Summary: irony

References:


Subtle pervasive censorship by library officials at our Boston Public Library
still continues after the appointment of the new director.  Savvy visitors
and users ask for documentation such as annual reports and library system
manuals so to know the system and thus develop effective and efficient
techniques like people who've made careers in libraries.  Reference services
decline these inquiries and related requests sometimes as whimsical or
intrusive.

The point is that the 130 year old public library should conserve and maintain
archives.  Even our library board's public meetings should be accessible,
instead of the intimidation that has discouraged civic interest.  Also
marketing the library should encourage civic participation with comment,
criticism, praise and suggestions.  BPL public relations seems to be this
formulated paternalistic approach to constituent groups that through long
experience they know what's best for everyone without asking.