During the American Library Association’s (ALA) 2026 Annual Conference in Chicago, ALA Council passed a resolution calling for the adoption and recognition of the Librarians’ and Library Workers’ Bill of Rights, a landmark framework affirming the dignity, safety and professional rights of library workers across all sectors.
Library workers are often the foundation of access to information, lifelong learning, an community service — yet they can face inequities, safety concerns, and professional disrespect. This Bill of Rights was developed to protect and empower those who uphold the mission of libraries and ensure that library workplaces reflect the values of democracy, inclusion, and intellectual freedom. It applies to all library workers—librarians, paraprofessionals, assistants, pages, technicians, administrators, and support staff—across public, academic, school, and special libraries.
Richard Ashby Jr., director of Sharon Hill (Penn.) Public Library and a leader in library equity and inclusion, developed the original concept and draft. He shared the initial document with his colleagues in the Professional Group of Directors and Managers for Diversity, who collaboratively refined, word-smithed, and contributed additional sections to strengthen the language and ensure it represented a broad range of library experiences.
The resolution, presented at Council Meeting I at ALA Annual, responds to growing concerns about the treatment and working conditions of library professionals nationwide. It underscores the essential role librarians and library workers play as champions of intellectual freedom, equitable access to information, and lifelong learning.
The resolution highlights the escalating challenges faced by library workers, including harassment, censorship pressures, and workplace inequities and calls on library systems at all levels to formally adopt the Bill of Rights as a guiding document for policy and practice.
The Librarians’ and Library Workers’ Bill of Rights
Article I: The Right to a Safe, Respectful, and Discrimination-Free Workplace
All library workers have the right to perform their duties in an environment free from harassment, bullying, discrimination, and threats to personal safety.
Article II: The Right to Recognition and Respect for the Librarian’s Role in Fostering Intellectual Freedom
Librarians and library workers shall not be censored, silenced, or punished for upholding intellectual freedom and professional ethics.
Article III: The Right to Fair Compensation and Ongoing Professional Development
All library workers deserve fair pay, professional respect, and opportunities for continued growth within their field.
Article IV: The Right to Reflect and Respect the Diversity of the Human Experience.
Librarians and library workers shall strive to represent the diversity of their communities in the materials they collect, in the displays they create, and the programs and services that they offer.
Article V: The Right to Protection from Workplace Harassment and Threats
No library worker shall endure intimidation, violence, or bullying from patrons, colleagues, or administrators.
Article VI: The Right to Fair Treatment and Due Process
Library workers shall be guaranteed transparency, fairness, and access to representation in all disciplinary or termination actions. Together, these principles aim to create stronger, more inclusive library environments that benefit both staff and the communities they serve.
The resolution urges libraries, governing boards, and affiliated organizations to formally endorse and integrate the Bill of Rights into organizational policies, training, and strategic planning.
“The passage of this resolution marks an important step forward in recognizing the rights, safety and professional dignity of library workers everywhere,” said ALA Past President Sam Helmick. “At a time when library professionals are facing unprecedented challenges, ALA is affirming that those who serve our communities deserve respect, support and protection as they uphold intellectual freedom and access to information for all.”
