Ethics Statement

All of us at the Hastings Public Library believe acting ethically is critical to fulfilling our mission as a Library and in our role as a trusted community resource. We want everyone to understand what standards we strive to adhere to.

• We provide the highest level of service to all library users through appropriate and usefully organized resources; equitable service policies; equitable access; and accurate, unbiased, and courteous responses to all requests.
• We uphold the principles of intellectual freedom and resist all efforts to censor library resources.
• We protect each library user's right to privacy and confidentiality with respect to information sought or received and resources consulted, borrowed, acquired or transmitted.
• We respect intellectual property rights and advocate balance between the interests of information users and rights holders.
• We treat co-workers and other colleagues with respect, fairness, and good faith, and advocate conditions of employment that safeguard the rights and welfare of all employees.
• We do not advance private interests at the expense of library users, colleagues, or the library.
• We distinguish between our personal convictions and professional duties and do not allow our personal beliefs to interfere with fair representation of the aims of the library or the provision of access to information resources.
• We strive for excellence in the profession by maintaining and enhancing our own knowledge and skills, by encouraging the professional development of co-workers, and by fostering the aspirations of potential members of the profession.
• We affirm the inherent dignity and rights of every person.

Statement updated October 10, 2024