Faith-informed intellectual freedom: an annotated bibliography

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this annotated bibliography is to show perspectives on intellectual freedom from literature that provides approaches for librarians in faith-based institutions. The articles reviewed in this annotated bibliography will assist both Christian and secular librarians in selecting library materials.

Design/methodology/approach

The author identified sources using LISTA, ATLA and other common library databases. Sources were selected from 1993 to the present, focusing on sources that are on the application of intellectual freedom in the Christian academic library and/or librarian.

Findings

Best (2010) discusses censorship in academic libraries based on the top ten most-challenged books in 2007 which have research implications for Christian institutions. Johnson (2002), Davis (2002) and Smith (2004) offer library recommendations based on the review of the literature and their own practice. Hippenhammer (1993/1994) presents survey data and findings on collection development policies and intellectual freedom from Christian libraries. Matacio (2003) shares quantitative research from Seventh-Day Adventist (SDA) libraries applicable to other Christian institutions.

Research limitations/implications

The majority of the research on intellectual freedom and Christian librarianship is from 10 or more years ago.

Originality/value

This annotated bibliography is a starting point for research that could be conducted to help in the evaluation of Christian academic library’s collection development policy.

Citation

Gehring, D.R. (2016), "Faith-informed intellectual freedom: an annotated bibliography", Collection Building, Vol. 35 No. 2, pp. 48-53. https://doi.org/10.1108/CB-12-2015-0020