Public Library Collections in the Balance: Censorship, Inclusivity, and Truth

Downey, Jennifer. Public Library Collections in the Balance: Censorship, Inclusivity, and Truth. Libraries Unlimited, 2017. ISBN: 978-1-4408-4964-0

Description
Each chapter of this book blends instructive background narrative with practical advice, research findings, and relevant information about librarianship's professional guidelines, including the ALA's Library Bill of Rights and the Freedom to Read Statement. Vignettes, "what would you do?" examples, effective non-confrontational techniques for conflict resolution, and lists of tips and traps help readers to think critically about their own biases and rehearse possible responses to controversial situations.

Table of Contents

• History of censorship in the public library and where we are today
• What gets challenged and why
• Internet access : to filter or not to filter?
• Media matters
• Preventing and preparing for challenges : a strong collection development policy, staff training, and professional resources
• Getting to know your communities: facts, figures, and assumptions
• Self-censorship and the importance of inclusiveness
• Quality and demand in public libraries : who decides?
• What to do when complaints and challenges happen
• Epilogue
• Appendix A. Where to turn: a source list of LGBT-friendly books and other materials
• Appendix B. Where to turn: a sampling of small and alternative presses.

Effective Difficult Conversations

Soehner, C. B., & Darling, A. (2017). Effective Difficult Conversations: A Step-by-Step Guide. Chicago, IL: ALA Editions.

In an information landscape where change is the status quo, difficult conversations come with the territory. Being a library leader means knowing how to confidently steer these conversations so that they lead to productive results instead of hurt feelings, resentment, or worse.  Employees in a library will also encounter conflict, especially during times of change. Using a step-by-step process, this book walks readers through learning the skills to have effective difficult conversations that hold themselves and others accountable. Practice activities throughout the book will help readers feel prepared beforehand. After reading this book, library directors, managers, administrators, and team leaders will feel empowered to

• proactively identify situations that require an intervention in order to avoid unnecessary complications or confrontations down the line;
• prepare for and initiate a difficult conversation, balancing a clear message with compassion to successfully manage change or handle personnel issues;
• diffuse volatile emotions by maintaining a calm, measured approach;  and
• follow up a difficult conversation in writing, keeping the lines of communication open to ensure a way forward.

Illustrated with real-world examples of both successful and unsuccessful difficult conversations, this book will serve as an important leadership tool for handling change and conflicts in the library workplace.

(Book description)