Thank you, Al, for replying and asking these questions.

I thought that maybe I was missing something, or that these were just updates to those five existing core values. Why are SEVEN values being removed? I understand condensing and revising, but this is extreme. At a time where many libraries and library professionals are struggling, we need strong core values, policies, and statements from ALA to point to for why we do what we do, and we need the strong support of our professional organizations. I have a feeling that this draft is a result of trying to please people who still insist that libraries should be fully neutral, and frankly, those with conservative viewpoints. This is a giant step backwards and I agree with Mark that SRRT must unite in opposition to this draft.

- Jessica

The short answer for why they're deleting so many core values is because there was significant overlap between the old ones.  So the proposed draft doesn't simply remove seven of them: only two of the proposed new core values, Access and Public Good, have direct one-to-one analogues in the old ones. The others are new and combine principles from the old, very long list. 

When everything is a core value nothing is, and the longer and more bloated the list becomes, the less meaningful any given item is. I think we can make a case for any of our priorities as a round table based on the new list of core values, and I don't think having our round table's name included in the list of core values is going to make us any more or less successful in making that case. 

Thank you, Al, for replying and asking these questions.

I thought that maybe I was missing something, or that these were just updates to those five existing core values. Why are SEVEN values being removed? I understand condensing and revising, but this is extreme. At a time where many libraries and library professionals are struggling, we need strong core values, policies, and statements from ALA to point to for why we do what we do, and we need the strong support of our professional organizations. I have a feeling that this draft is a result of trying to please people who still insist that libraries should be fully neutral, and frankly, those with conservative viewpoints. This is a giant step backwards and I agree with Mark that SRRT must unite in opposition to this draft.

- Jessica

The short answer for why they're deleting so many core values is because there was significant overlap between the old ones.  So the proposed draft doesn't simply remove seven of them: only two of the proposed new core values, Access and Public Good, have direct one-to-one analogues in the old ones. The others are new and combine principles from the old, very long list. 

When everything is a core value nothing is, and the longer and more bloated the list becomes, the less meaningful any given item is. I think we can make a case for any of our priorities as a round table based on the new list of core values, and I don't think having our round table's name included in the list of core values is going to make us any more or less successful in making that case. 

Thank you, Al, for replying and asking these questions.

I thought that maybe I was missing something, or that these were just updates to those five existing core values. Why are SEVEN values being removed? I understand condensing and revising, but this is extreme. At a time where many libraries and library professionals are struggling, we need strong core values, policies, and statements from ALA to point to for why we do what we do, and we need the strong support of our professional organizations. I have a feeling that this draft is a result of trying to please people who still insist that libraries should be fully neutral, and frankly, those with conservative viewpoints. This is a giant step backwards and I agree with Mark that SRRT must unite in opposition to this draft.

- Jessica

The short answer for why they're deleting so many core values is because there was significant overlap between the old ones.  So the proposed draft doesn't simply remove seven of them: only two of the proposed new core values, Access and Public Good, have direct one-to-one analogues in the old ones. The others are new and combine principles from the old, very long list. 

When everything is a core value nothing is, and the longer and more bloated the list becomes, the less meaningful any given item is. I think we can make a case for any of our priorities as a round table based on the new list of core values, and I don't think having our round table's name included in the list of core values is going to make us any more or less successful in making that case. 

Thank you, Al, for replying and asking these questions.

I thought that maybe I was missing something, or that these were just updates to those five existing core values. Why are SEVEN values being removed? I understand condensing and revising, but this is extreme. At a time where many libraries and library professionals are struggling, we need strong core values, policies, and statements from ALA to point to for why we do what we do, and we need the strong support of our professional organizations. I have a feeling that this draft is a result of trying to please people who still insist that libraries should be fully neutral, and frankly, those with conservative viewpoints. This is a giant step backwards and I agree with Mark that SRRT must unite in opposition to this draft.

- Jessica

Original Message:
Sent: 1/4/2024 2:21:00 PM
From: Tara Brady
Subject: RE: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

The short answer for why they're deleting so many core values is because there was significant overlap between the old ones.  So the proposed draft doesn't simply remove seven of them: only two of the proposed new core values, Access and Public Good, have direct one-to-one analogues in the old ones. The others are new and combine principles from the old, very long list. 

When everything is a core value nothing is, and the longer and more bloated the list becomes, the less meaningful any given item is. I think we can make a case for any of our priorities as a round table based on the new list of core values, and I don't think having our round table's name included in the list of core values is going to make us any more or less successful in making that case. 

------------------------------
Tara Brady
Assistant Library Manager
Queens Public Library
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 04, 2024 09:24 AM
From: Jessica Dyer
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Thank you, Al, for replying and asking these questions.

I thought that maybe I was missing something, or that these were just updates to those five existing core values. Why are SEVEN values being removed? I understand condensing and revising, but this is extreme. At a time where many libraries and library professionals are struggling, we need strong core values, policies, and statements from ALA to point to for why we do what we do, and we need the strong support of our professional organizations. I have a feeling that this draft is a result of trying to please people who still insist that libraries should be fully neutral, and frankly, those with conservative viewpoints. This is a giant step backwards and I agree with Mark that SRRT must unite in opposition to this draft.

- Jessica

------------------------------
Jessica Dyer
Marketing & Public Relations Manager
Tinley Park Public Libary
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 03, 2024 09:46 PM
From: Mark Rosenzweig
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Every corner of this association likely has some element or other of the old core values that they'd rather keep (except for SustainRT I guess!) While it's true the word 'democratic' appears only once in this document, 'democracy' only appears twice in the old core values, which are more than twice as long. These core values devote one sentence to explaining how libraries are essential to democracy: the old one devotes three.  There's less of this one element in the new core values statement, but there's less of everything, because the statement is much shorter. And more importantly, the principle outlined in the old 'Democracy' core value statement is also covered in Libraries: An American Value, which this proposal lists as a 'foundational document' (just as 'Professionalism,' which is also being dropped from the core values list, is well covered in the code of ethics, also listed as a foundational document.) 

I think we are always more effective when we focus on leading positive change rather than trying to fight changes that are going ahead with or without us. Why don't we look at "Libraries: an American Value," (which is now nearly 25 years old) and see if it needs to be added to or amended, both to shore up anything that's being lost in the core values revision and to better reflect our current political environment?  

------------------------------
Tara Brady
Assistant Library Manager
Queens Public Library
She/Her/Hers
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 04, 2024 02:15 PM
From: Charles Kratz
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Original Message:
Sent: 1/4/2024 2:21:00 PM
From: Tara Brady
Subject: RE: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

The short answer for why they're deleting so many core values is because there was significant overlap between the old ones.  So the proposed draft doesn't simply remove seven of them: only two of the proposed new core values, Access and Public Good, have direct one-to-one analogues in the old ones. The others are new and combine principles from the old, very long list. 

When everything is a core value nothing is, and the longer and more bloated the list becomes, the less meaningful any given item is. I think we can make a case for any of our priorities as a round table based on the new list of core values, and I don't think having our round table's name included in the list of core values is going to make us any more or less successful in making that case. 

------------------------------
Tara Brady
Assistant Library Manager
Queens Public Library
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 04, 2024 09:24 AM
From: Jessica Dyer
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Thank you, Al, for replying and asking these questions.

I thought that maybe I was missing something, or that these were just updates to those five existing core values. Why are SEVEN values being removed? I understand condensing and revising, but this is extreme. At a time where many libraries and library professionals are struggling, we need strong core values, policies, and statements from ALA to point to for why we do what we do, and we need the strong support of our professional organizations. I have a feeling that this draft is a result of trying to please people who still insist that libraries should be fully neutral, and frankly, those with conservative viewpoints. This is a giant step backwards and I agree with Mark that SRRT must unite in opposition to this draft.

- Jessica

------------------------------
Jessica Dyer
Marketing & Public Relations Manager
Tinley Park Public Libary
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 03, 2024 09:46 PM
From: Mark Rosenzweig
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Every corner of this association likely has some element or other of the old core values that they'd rather keep (except for SustainRT I guess!) While it's true the word 'democratic' appears only once in this document, 'democracy' only appears twice in the old core values, which are more than twice as long. These core values devote one sentence to explaining how libraries are essential to democracy: the old one devotes three.  There's less of this one element in the new core values statement, but there's less of everything, because the statement is much shorter. And more importantly, the principle outlined in the old 'Democracy' core value statement is also covered in Libraries: An American Value, which this proposal lists as a 'foundational document' (just as 'Professionalism,' which is also being dropped from the core values list, is well covered in the code of ethics, also listed as a foundational document.) 

I think we are always more effective when we focus on leading positive change rather than trying to fight changes that are going ahead with or without us. Why don't we look at "Libraries: an American Value," (which is now nearly 25 years old) and see if it needs to be added to or amended, both to shore up anything that's being lost in the core values revision and to better reflect our current political environment?  

------------------------------
Tara Brady
Assistant Library Manager
Queens Public Library
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 04, 2024 02:15 PM
From: Charles Kratz
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Original Message:
Sent: 1/4/2024 2:21:00 PM
From: Tara Brady
Subject: RE: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

The short answer for why they're deleting so many core values is because there was significant overlap between the old ones.  So the proposed draft doesn't simply remove seven of them: only two of the proposed new core values, Access and Public Good, have direct one-to-one analogues in the old ones. The others are new and combine principles from the old, very long list. 

When everything is a core value nothing is, and the longer and more bloated the list becomes, the less meaningful any given item is. I think we can make a case for any of our priorities as a round table based on the new list of core values, and I don't think having our round table's name included in the list of core values is going to make us any more or less successful in making that case. 

------------------------------
Tara Brady
Assistant Library Manager
Queens Public Library
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 04, 2024 09:24 AM
From: Jessica Dyer
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Thank you, Al, for replying and asking these questions.

I thought that maybe I was missing something, or that these were just updates to those five existing core values. Why are SEVEN values being removed? I understand condensing and revising, but this is extreme. At a time where many libraries and library professionals are struggling, we need strong core values, policies, and statements from ALA to point to for why we do what we do, and we need the strong support of our professional organizations. I have a feeling that this draft is a result of trying to please people who still insist that libraries should be fully neutral, and frankly, those with conservative viewpoints. This is a giant step backwards and I agree with Mark that SRRT must unite in opposition to this draft.

- Jessica

------------------------------
Jessica Dyer
Marketing & Public Relations Manager
Tinley Park Public Libary
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 03, 2024 09:46 PM
From: Mark Rosenzweig
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Mark:

I did not say - or even imply - that it was a 'vanity project' so I'm not sure why that's in quotes.  And no, I was not on the core values task force, so I was not directly involved in the revision. If I was, I'd have said so. This revision has been in progress for years, and has been discussed on this forum before. It's not new news. I think our EB liaison, Sara Dallas, was the chair of at least one of the working groups, so maybe she can shed more light on the process. 

I have to say, though, that I don't much appreciate your framing this revision as 'reactionary' or claiming it is 'telling of a new rightward direction' as you did on Facebook. I think there is a tendency among some on this round table to see any disagreement as evidence that the person disagreeing is more conservative than them. Sometimes people just disagree with each other and that's okay! 

Every corner of this association likely has some element or other of the old core values that they'd rather keep (except for SustainRT I guess!) While it's true the word 'democratic' appears only once in this document, 'democracy' only appears twice in the old core values, which are more than twice as long. These core values devote one sentence to explaining how libraries are essential to democracy: the old one devotes three.  There's less of this one element in the new core values statement, but there's less of everything, because the statement is much shorter. And more importantly, the principle outlined in the old 'Democracy' core value statement is also covered in Libraries: An American Value, which this proposal lists as a 'foundational document' (just as 'Professionalism,' which is also being dropped from the core values list, is well covered in the code of ethics, also listed as a foundational document.) 

I think we are always more effective when we focus on leading positive change rather than trying to fight changes that are going ahead with or without us. Why don't we look at "Libraries: an American Value," (which is now nearly 25 years old) and see if it needs to be added to or amended, both to shore up anything that's being lost in the core values revision and to better reflect our current political environment?  

------------------------------
Tara Brady
Assistant Library Manager
Queens Public Library
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 04, 2024 02:15 PM
From: Charles Kratz
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Original Message:
Sent: 1/4/2024 2:21:00 PM
From: Tara Brady
Subject: RE: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

The short answer for why they're deleting so many core values is because there was significant overlap between the old ones.  So the proposed draft doesn't simply remove seven of them: only two of the proposed new core values, Access and Public Good, have direct one-to-one analogues in the old ones. The others are new and combine principles from the old, very long list. 

When everything is a core value nothing is, and the longer and more bloated the list becomes, the less meaningful any given item is. I think we can make a case for any of our priorities as a round table based on the new list of core values, and I don't think having our round table's name included in the list of core values is going to make us any more or less successful in making that case. 

------------------------------
Tara Brady
Assistant Library Manager
Queens Public Library
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 04, 2024 09:24 AM
From: Jessica Dyer
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Thank you, Al, for replying and asking these questions.

I thought that maybe I was missing something, or that these were just updates to those five existing core values. Why are SEVEN values being removed? I understand condensing and revising, but this is extreme. At a time where many libraries and library professionals are struggling, we need strong core values, policies, and statements from ALA to point to for why we do what we do, and we need the strong support of our professional organizations. I have a feeling that this draft is a result of trying to please people who still insist that libraries should be fully neutral, and frankly, those with conservative viewpoints. This is a giant step backwards and I agree with Mark that SRRT must unite in opposition to this draft.

- Jessica

------------------------------
Jessica Dyer
Marketing & Public Relations Manager
Tinley Park Public Libary
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 03, 2024 09:46 PM
From: Mark Rosenzweig
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Mark:

I did not say - or even imply - that it was a 'vanity project' so I'm not sure why that's in quotes.  And no, I was not on the core values task force, so I was not directly involved in the revision. If I was, I'd have said so. This revision has been in progress for years, and has been discussed on this forum before. It's not new news. I think our EB liaison, Sara Dallas, was the chair of at least one of the working groups, so maybe she can shed more light on the process. 

I have to say, though, that I don't much appreciate your framing this revision as 'reactionary' or claiming it is 'telling of a new rightward direction' as you did on Facebook. I think there is a tendency among some on this round table to see any disagreement as evidence that the person disagreeing is more conservative than them. Sometimes people just disagree with each other and that's okay! 

Every corner of this association likely has some element or other of the old core values that they'd rather keep (except for SustainRT I guess!) While it's true the word 'democratic' appears only once in this document, 'democracy' only appears twice in the old core values, which are more than twice as long. These core values devote one sentence to explaining how libraries are essential to democracy: the old one devotes three.  There's less of this one element in the new core values statement, but there's less of everything, because the statement is much shorter. And more importantly, the principle outlined in the old 'Democracy' core value statement is also covered in Libraries: An American Value, which this proposal lists as a 'foundational document' (just as 'Professionalism,' which is also being dropped from the core values list, is well covered in the code of ethics, also listed as a foundational document.) 

I think we are always more effective when we focus on leading positive change rather than trying to fight changes that are going ahead with or without us. Why don't we look at "Libraries: an American Value," (which is now nearly 25 years old) and see if it needs to be added to or amended, both to shore up anything that's being lost in the core values revision and to better reflect our current political environment?  

------------------------------
Tara Brady
Assistant Library Manager
Queens Public Library
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 04, 2024 02:15 PM
From: Charles Kratz
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Original Message:
Sent: 1/4/2024 2:21:00 PM
From: Tara Brady
Subject: RE: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

The short answer for why they're deleting so many core values is because there was significant overlap between the old ones.  So the proposed draft doesn't simply remove seven of them: only two of the proposed new core values, Access and Public Good, have direct one-to-one analogues in the old ones. The others are new and combine principles from the old, very long list. 

When everything is a core value nothing is, and the longer and more bloated the list becomes, the less meaningful any given item is. I think we can make a case for any of our priorities as a round table based on the new list of core values, and I don't think having our round table's name included in the list of core values is going to make us any more or less successful in making that case. 

------------------------------
Tara Brady
Assistant Library Manager
Queens Public Library
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 04, 2024 09:24 AM
From: Jessica Dyer
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Thank you, Al, for replying and asking these questions.

I thought that maybe I was missing something, or that these were just updates to those five existing core values. Why are SEVEN values being removed? I understand condensing and revising, but this is extreme. At a time where many libraries and library professionals are struggling, we need strong core values, policies, and statements from ALA to point to for why we do what we do, and we need the strong support of our professional organizations. I have a feeling that this draft is a result of trying to please people who still insist that libraries should be fully neutral, and frankly, those with conservative viewpoints. This is a giant step backwards and I agree with Mark that SRRT must unite in opposition to this draft.

- Jessica

------------------------------
Jessica Dyer
Marketing & Public Relations Manager
Tinley Park Public Libary
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 03, 2024 09:46 PM
From: Mark Rosenzweig
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Mark:

I did not say - or even imply - that it was a 'vanity project' so I'm not sure why that's in quotes.  And no, I was not on the core values task force, so I was not directly involved in the revision. If I was, I'd have said so. This revision has been in progress for years, and has been discussed on this forum before. It's not new news. I think our EB liaison, Sara Dallas, was the chair of at least one of the working groups, so maybe she can shed more light on the process. 

I have to say, though, that I don't much appreciate your framing this revision as 'reactionary' or claiming it is 'telling of a new rightward direction' as you did on Facebook. I think there is a tendency among some on this round table to see any disagreement as evidence that the person disagreeing is more conservative than them. Sometimes people just disagree with each other and that's okay! 

Every corner of this association likely has some element or other of the old core values that they'd rather keep (except for SustainRT I guess!) While it's true the word 'democratic' appears only once in this document, 'democracy' only appears twice in the old core values, which are more than twice as long. These core values devote one sentence to explaining how libraries are essential to democracy: the old one devotes three.  There's less of this one element in the new core values statement, but there's less of everything, because the statement is much shorter. And more importantly, the principle outlined in the old 'Democracy' core value statement is also covered in Libraries: An American Value, which this proposal lists as a 'foundational document' (just as 'Professionalism,' which is also being dropped from the core values list, is well covered in the code of ethics, also listed as a foundational document.) 

I think we are always more effective when we focus on leading positive change rather than trying to fight changes that are going ahead with or without us. Why don't we look at "Libraries: an American Value," (which is now nearly 25 years old) and see if it needs to be added to or amended, both to shore up anything that's being lost in the core values revision and to better reflect our current political environment?  

------------------------------
Tara Brady
Assistant Library Manager
Queens Public Library
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 04, 2024 02:15 PM
From: Charles Kratz
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Original Message:
Sent: 1/4/2024 2:21:00 PM
From: Tara Brady
Subject: RE: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

The short answer for why they're deleting so many core values is because there was significant overlap between the old ones.  So the proposed draft doesn't simply remove seven of them: only two of the proposed new core values, Access and Public Good, have direct one-to-one analogues in the old ones. The others are new and combine principles from the old, very long list. 

When everything is a core value nothing is, and the longer and more bloated the list becomes, the less meaningful any given item is. I think we can make a case for any of our priorities as a round table based on the new list of core values, and I don't think having our round table's name included in the list of core values is going to make us any more or less successful in making that case. 

------------------------------
Tara Brady
Assistant Library Manager
Queens Public Library
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 04, 2024 09:24 AM
From: Jessica Dyer
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Thank you, Al, for replying and asking these questions.

I thought that maybe I was missing something, or that these were just updates to those five existing core values. Why are SEVEN values being removed? I understand condensing and revising, but this is extreme. At a time where many libraries and library professionals are struggling, we need strong core values, policies, and statements from ALA to point to for why we do what we do, and we need the strong support of our professional organizations. I have a feeling that this draft is a result of trying to please people who still insist that libraries should be fully neutral, and frankly, those with conservative viewpoints. This is a giant step backwards and I agree with Mark that SRRT must unite in opposition to this draft.

- Jessica

------------------------------
Jessica Dyer
Marketing & Public Relations Manager
Tinley Park Public Libary
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 03, 2024 09:46 PM
From: Mark Rosenzweig
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Mark:

I did not say - or even imply - that it was a 'vanity project' so I'm not sure why that's in quotes.  And no, I was not on the core values task force, so I was not directly involved in the revision. If I was, I'd have said so. This revision has been in progress for years, and has been discussed on this forum before. It's not new news. I think our EB liaison, Sara Dallas, was the chair of at least one of the working groups, so maybe she can shed more light on the process. 

I have to say, though, that I don't much appreciate your framing this revision as 'reactionary' or claiming it is 'telling of a new rightward direction' as you did on Facebook. I think there is a tendency among some on this round table to see any disagreement as evidence that the person disagreeing is more conservative than them. Sometimes people just disagree with each other and that's okay! 

Every corner of this association likely has some element or other of the old core values that they'd rather keep (except for SustainRT I guess!) While it's true the word 'democratic' appears only once in this document, 'democracy' only appears twice in the old core values, which are more than twice as long. These core values devote one sentence to explaining how libraries are essential to democracy: the old one devotes three.  There's less of this one element in the new core values statement, but there's less of everything, because the statement is much shorter. And more importantly, the principle outlined in the old 'Democracy' core value statement is also covered in Libraries: An American Value, which this proposal lists as a 'foundational document' (just as 'Professionalism,' which is also being dropped from the core values list, is well covered in the code of ethics, also listed as a foundational document.) 

I think we are always more effective when we focus on leading positive change rather than trying to fight changes that are going ahead with or without us. Why don't we look at "Libraries: an American Value," (which is now nearly 25 years old) and see if it needs to be added to or amended, both to shore up anything that's being lost in the core values revision and to better reflect our current political environment?  

------------------------------
Tara Brady
Assistant Library Manager
Queens Public Library
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 04, 2024 02:15 PM
From: Charles Kratz
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Original Message:
Sent: 1/4/2024 2:21:00 PM
From: Tara Brady
Subject: RE: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

The short answer for why they're deleting so many core values is because there was significant overlap between the old ones.  So the proposed draft doesn't simply remove seven of them: only two of the proposed new core values, Access and Public Good, have direct one-to-one analogues in the old ones. The others are new and combine principles from the old, very long list. 

When everything is a core value nothing is, and the longer and more bloated the list becomes, the less meaningful any given item is. I think we can make a case for any of our priorities as a round table based on the new list of core values, and I don't think having our round table's name included in the list of core values is going to make us any more or less successful in making that case. 

------------------------------
Tara Brady
Assistant Library Manager
Queens Public Library
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 04, 2024 09:24 AM
From: Jessica Dyer
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Thank you, Al, for replying and asking these questions.

I thought that maybe I was missing something, or that these were just updates to those five existing core values. Why are SEVEN values being removed? I understand condensing and revising, but this is extreme. At a time where many libraries and library professionals are struggling, we need strong core values, policies, and statements from ALA to point to for why we do what we do, and we need the strong support of our professional organizations. I have a feeling that this draft is a result of trying to please people who still insist that libraries should be fully neutral, and frankly, those with conservative viewpoints. This is a giant step backwards and I agree with Mark that SRRT must unite in opposition to this draft.

- Jessica

------------------------------
Jessica Dyer
Marketing & Public Relations Manager
Tinley Park Public Libary
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 03, 2024 09:46 PM
From: Mark Rosenzweig
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Mark:

I did not say - or even imply - that it was a 'vanity project' so I'm not sure why that's in quotes.  And no, I was not on the core values task force, so I was not directly involved in the revision. If I was, I'd have said so. This revision has been in progress for years, and has been discussed on this forum before. It's not new news. I think our EB liaison, Sara Dallas, was the chair of at least one of the working groups, so maybe she can shed more light on the process.  I have to say, though, that I don't much appreciate your framing this revision as 'reactionary' or claiming it is 'telling of a new rightward direction' as you did on Facebook. I think there is a tendency among some on this round table to see any disagreement as evidence that the person disagreeing is more conservative than them. Sometimes people just disagree with each other and that's okay! 

Every corner of this association likely has some element or other of the old core values that they'd rather keep (except for SustainRT I guess!) While it's true the word 'democratic' appears only once in this document, 'democracy' only appears twice in the old core values, which are more than twice as long. These core values devote one sentence to explaining how libraries are essential to democracy: the old one devotes three.  There's less of this one element in the new core values statement, but there's less of everything, because the statement is much shorter. And more importantly, the principle outlined in the old 'Democracy' core value statement is also covered in Libraries: An American Value, which this proposal lists as a 'foundational document' (just as 'Professionalism,' which is also being dropped from the core values list, is well covered in the code of ethics, also listed as a foundational document.) 

I think we are always more effective when we focus on leading positive change rather than trying to fight changes that are going ahead with or without us. Why don't we look at "Libraries: an American Value," (which is now nearly 25 years old) and see if it needs to be added to or amended, both to shore up anything that's being lost in the core values revision and to better reflect our current political environment?  

------------------------------ Tara Brady Assistant Library Manager Queens Public Library She/Her/Hers Original Message: Sent: Jan 04, 2024 02:15 PM From: Charles Kratz Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Original Message: Sent: 1/4/2024 2:21:00 PM From: Tara Brady Subject: RE: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

The short answer for why they're deleting so many core values is because there was significant overlap between the old ones.  So the proposed draft doesn't simply remove seven of them: only two of the proposed new core values, Access and Public Good, have direct one-to-one analogues in the old ones. The others are new and combine principles from the old, very long list. 

When everything is a core value nothing is, and the longer and more bloated the list becomes, the less meaningful any given item is. I think we can make a case for any of our priorities as a round table based on the new list of core values, and I don't think having our round table's name included in the list of core values is going to make us any more or less successful in making that case. 

------------------------------ Tara Brady Assistant Library Manager Queens Public Library She/Her/Hers Original Message: Sent: Jan 04, 2024 09:24 AM From: Jessica Dyer Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Thank you, Al, for replying and asking these questions.

I thought that maybe I was missing something, or that these were just updates to those five existing core values. Why are SEVEN values being removed? I understand condensing and revising, but this is extreme. At a time where many libraries and library professionals are struggling, we need strong core values, policies, and statements from ALA to point to for why we do what we do, and we need the strong support of our professional organizations. I have a feeling that this draft is a result of trying to please people who still insist that libraries should be fully neutral, and frankly, those with conservative viewpoints. This is a giant step backwards and I agree with Mark that SRRT must unite in opposition to this draft.

- Jessica

------------------------------ Jessica Dyer Marketing & Public Relations Manager Tinley Park Public Libary She/Her/Hers Original Message: Sent: Jan 03, 2024 09:46 PM From: Mark Rosenzweig Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Mark:

I did not say - or even imply - that it was a 'vanity project' so I'm not sure why that's in quotes.  And no, I was not on the core values task force, so I was not directly involved in the revision. If I was, I'd have said so. This revision has been in progress for years, and has been discussed on this forum before. It's not new news. I think our EB liaison, Sara Dallas, was the chair of at least one of the working groups, so maybe she can shed more light on the process. 

I have to say, though, that I don't much appreciate your framing this revision as 'reactionary' or claiming it is 'telling of a new rightward direction' as you did on Facebook. I think there is a tendency among some on this round table to see any disagreement as evidence that the person disagreeing is more conservative than them. Sometimes people just disagree with each other and that's okay! 

Every corner of this association likely has some element or other of the old core values that they'd rather keep (except for SustainRT I guess!) While it's true the word 'democratic' appears only once in this document, 'democracy' only appears twice in the old core values, which are more than twice as long. These core values devote one sentence to explaining how libraries are essential to democracy: the old one devotes three.  There's less of this one element in the new core values statement, but there's less of everything, because the statement is much shorter. And more importantly, the principle outlined in the old 'Democracy' core value statement is also covered in Libraries: An American Value, which this proposal lists as a 'foundational document' (just as 'Professionalism,' which is also being dropped from the core values list, is well covered in the code of ethics, also listed as a foundational document.) 

I think we are always more effective when we focus on leading positive change rather than trying to fight changes that are going ahead with or without us. Why don't we look at "Libraries: an American Value," (which is now nearly 25 years old) and see if it needs to be added to or amended, both to shore up anything that's being lost in the core values revision and to better reflect our current political environment?  

------------------------------
Tara Brady
Assistant Library Manager
Queens Public Library
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 04, 2024 02:15 PM
From: Charles Kratz
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Original Message:
Sent: 1/4/2024 2:21:00 PM
From: Tara Brady
Subject: RE: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

The short answer for why they're deleting so many core values is because there was significant overlap between the old ones.  So the proposed draft doesn't simply remove seven of them: only two of the proposed new core values, Access and Public Good, have direct one-to-one analogues in the old ones. The others are new and combine principles from the old, very long list. 

When everything is a core value nothing is, and the longer and more bloated the list becomes, the less meaningful any given item is. I think we can make a case for any of our priorities as a round table based on the new list of core values, and I don't think having our round table's name included in the list of core values is going to make us any more or less successful in making that case. 

------------------------------
Tara Brady
Assistant Library Manager
Queens Public Library
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 04, 2024 09:24 AM
From: Jessica Dyer
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Thank you, Al, for replying and asking these questions.

I thought that maybe I was missing something, or that these were just updates to those five existing core values. Why are SEVEN values being removed? I understand condensing and revising, but this is extreme. At a time where many libraries and library professionals are struggling, we need strong core values, policies, and statements from ALA to point to for why we do what we do, and we need the strong support of our professional organizations. I have a feeling that this draft is a result of trying to please people who still insist that libraries should be fully neutral, and frankly, those with conservative viewpoints. This is a giant step backwards and I agree with Mark that SRRT must unite in opposition to this draft.

- Jessica

------------------------------
Jessica Dyer
Marketing & Public Relations Manager
Tinley Park Public Libary
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 03, 2024 09:46 PM
From: Mark Rosenzweig
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Mark:

I did not say - or even imply - that it was a 'vanity project' so I'm not sure why that's in quotes.  And no, I was not on the core values task force, so I was not directly involved in the revision. If I was, I'd have said so. This revision has been in progress for years, and has been discussed on this forum before. It's not new news. I think our EB liaison, Sara Dallas, was the chair of at least one of the working groups, so maybe she can shed more light on the process. 

I have to say, though, that I don't much appreciate your framing this revision as 'reactionary' or claiming it is 'telling of a new rightward direction' as you did on Facebook. I think there is a tendency among some on this round table to see any disagreement as evidence that the person disagreeing is more conservative than them. Sometimes people just disagree with each other and that's okay! 

Every corner of this association likely has some element or other of the old core values that they'd rather keep (except for SustainRT I guess!) While it's true the word 'democratic' appears only once in this document, 'democracy' only appears twice in the old core values, which are more than twice as long. These core values devote one sentence to explaining how libraries are essential to democracy: the old one devotes three.  There's less of this one element in the new core values statement, but there's less of everything, because the statement is much shorter. And more importantly, the principle outlined in the old 'Democracy' core value statement is also covered in Libraries: An American Value, which this proposal lists as a 'foundational document' (just as 'Professionalism,' which is also being dropped from the core values list, is well covered in the code of ethics, also listed as a foundational document.) 

I think we are always more effective when we focus on leading positive change rather than trying to fight changes that are going ahead with or without us. Why don't we look at "Libraries: an American Value," (which is now nearly 25 years old) and see if it needs to be added to or amended, both to shore up anything that's being lost in the core values revision and to better reflect our current political environment?  

------------------------------
Tara Brady
Assistant Library Manager
Queens Public Library
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 04, 2024 02:15 PM
From: Charles Kratz
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Original Message:
Sent: 1/4/2024 2:21:00 PM
From: Tara Brady
Subject: RE: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

The short answer for why they're deleting so many core values is because there was significant overlap between the old ones.  So the proposed draft doesn't simply remove seven of them: only two of the proposed new core values, Access and Public Good, have direct one-to-one analogues in the old ones. The others are new and combine principles from the old, very long list. 

When everything is a core value nothing is, and the longer and more bloated the list becomes, the less meaningful any given item is. I think we can make a case for any of our priorities as a round table based on the new list of core values, and I don't think having our round table's name included in the list of core values is going to make us any more or less successful in making that case. 

------------------------------
Tara Brady
Assistant Library Manager
Queens Public Library
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 04, 2024 09:24 AM
From: Jessica Dyer
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Thank you, Al, for replying and asking these questions.

I thought that maybe I was missing something, or that these were just updates to those five existing core values. Why are SEVEN values being removed? I understand condensing and revising, but this is extreme. At a time where many libraries and library professionals are struggling, we need strong core values, policies, and statements from ALA to point to for why we do what we do, and we need the strong support of our professional organizations. I have a feeling that this draft is a result of trying to please people who still insist that libraries should be fully neutral, and frankly, those with conservative viewpoints. This is a giant step backwards and I agree with Mark that SRRT must unite in opposition to this draft.

- Jessica

------------------------------
Jessica Dyer
Marketing & Public Relations Manager
Tinley Park Public Libary
She/Her/Hers

Original Message:
Sent: Jan 03, 2024 09:46 PM
From: Mark Rosenzweig
Subject: FYI - Draft ALA Core Values

Thank you for sharing your concerns and perspectives regarding the proposed changes to  ALA's core values. The decision to reduce the number of core values from 12 to 5 was guided by the desire for a more concise, streamlined, and memorable set of values. While it may seem like a significant reduction, it's important to note that the new core values encompass principles from the previous ones, making them more encompassing and applicable to various aspects of librarianship. The intention is to offer a more focused and easily communicable framework that can serve as a solid foundation for ALA's mission and principles.

It's worth noting that several members of the Core Values Task Force (including myself) are active members of SRRT, and their perspectives were instrumental in shaping these revisions. Furthermore, SRRT Action Council, along with 16 other groups, was actively involved in the survey outreach effort, which included library leaders and stakeholders from a wide range of backgrounds. The data gathered from this survey informed the selection of the top five core values. The goal was to identify values that resonate with the essence of librarianship and reflect the contemporary landscape of libraries and library workers.

Regarding the removal of "Social Responsibility" and "Democracy," it's crucial to highlight that the task force's goal was not to diminish the importance of these values but to consolidate and integrate their underlying principles into the new core values. For example, elements of "Social Responsibility" can be found within the new value of "Equity," which emphasizes fairness and inclusion. Similarly, while "Democracy" as a standalone value was removed, the principles of democratic access to information and intellectual freedom are retained within the new core values.

As we move forward with these revised core values, the intention is to maintain a strong connection with ALA's foundational documents, such as the Library Bill of Rights, Code of Ethics, and Libraries: An American Value. The new core values will not replace these documents but will work in harmony with them, reinforcing our commitment to the principles enshrined within.

The task force is also considering the formation of working groups to draft interpretations of each core value. This will provide opportunities for further expansion and clarification of the values, addressing concerns about the potential loss of nuance.

We recognize the importance of having clear and meaningful core values that align with the needs of our profession. These revisions aim to create a more concise and adaptable framework while maintaining the core principles that underlie librarianship. We appreciate your engagement and invite continued discussions to ensure that the core values continue to evolve in a way that serves the best interests of the library community.

Sara

Thank you for sharing your concerns and perspectives regarding the proposed changes to  ALA's core values. The decision to reduce the number of core values from 12 to 5 was guided by the desire for a more concise, streamlined, and memorable set of values. While it may seem like a significant reduction, it's important to note that the new core values encompass principles from the previous ones, making them more encompassing and applicable to various aspects of librarianship. The intention is to offer a more focused and easily communicable framework that can serve as a solid foundation for ALA's mission and principles.

It's worth noting that several members of the Core Values Task Force (including myself) are active members of SRRT, and their perspectives were instrumental in shaping these revisions. Furthermore, SRRT Action Council, along with 16 other groups, was actively involved in the survey outreach effort, which included library leaders and stakeholders from a wide range of backgrounds. The data gathered from this survey informed the selection of the top five core values. The goal was to identify values that resonate with the essence of librarianship and reflect the contemporary landscape of libraries and library workers.

Regarding the removal of "Social Responsibility" and "Democracy," it's crucial to highlight that the task force's goal was not to diminish the importance of these values but to consolidate and integrate their underlying principles into the new core values. For example, elements of "Social Responsibility" can be found within the new value of "Equity," which emphasizes fairness and inclusion. Similarly, while "Democracy" as a standalone value was removed, the principles of democratic access to information and intellectual freedom are retained within the new core values.

As we move forward with these revised core values, the intention is to maintain a strong connection with ALA's foundational documents, such as the Library Bill of Rights, Code of Ethics, and Libraries: An American Value. The new core values will not replace these documents but will work in harmony with them, reinforcing our commitment to the principles enshrined within.

The task force is also considering the formation of working groups to draft interpretations of each core value. This will provide opportunities for further expansion and clarification of the values, addressing concerns about the potential loss of nuance.

We recognize the importance of having clear and meaningful core values that align with the needs of our profession. These revisions aim to create a more concise and adaptable framework while maintaining the core principles that underlie librarianship. We appreciate your engagement and invite continued discussions to ensure that the core values continue to evolve in a way that serves the best interests of the library community.

Sara

Thanks, for the question, Rebekah

Please find the two reports to Council.

Sara

Thank you for sharing your concerns and perspectives regarding the proposed changes to  ALA's core values. The decision to reduce the number of core values from 12 to 5 was guided by the desire for a more concise, streamlined, and memorable set of values. While it may seem like a significant reduction, it's important to note that the new core values encompass principles from the previous ones, making them more encompassing and applicable to various aspects of librarianship. The intention is to offer a more focused and easily communicable framework that can serve as a solid foundation for ALA's mission and principles.

It's worth noting that several members of the Core Values Task Force (including myself) are active members of SRRT, and their perspectives were instrumental in shaping these revisions. Furthermore, SRRT Action Council, along with 16 other groups, was actively involved in the survey outreach effort, which included library leaders and stakeholders from a wide range of backgrounds. The data gathered from this survey informed the selection of the top five core values. The goal was to identify values that resonate with the essence of librarianship and reflect the contemporary landscape of libraries and library workers.

Regarding the removal of "Social Responsibility" and "Democracy," it's crucial to highlight that the task force's goal was not to diminish the importance of these values but to consolidate and integrate their underlying principles into the new core values. For example, elements of "Social Responsibility" can be found within the new value of "Equity," which emphasizes fairness and inclusion. Similarly, while "Democracy" as a standalone value was removed, the principles of democratic access to information and intellectual freedom are retained within the new core values.

As we move forward with these revised core values, the intention is to maintain a strong connection with ALA's foundational documents, such as the Library Bill of Rights, Code of Ethics, and Libraries: An American Value. The new core values will not replace these documents but will work in harmony with them, reinforcing our commitment to the principles enshrined within.

The task force is also considering the formation of working groups to draft interpretations of each core value. This will provide opportunities for further expansion and clarification of the values, addressing concerns about the potential loss of nuance.

We recognize the importance of having clear and meaningful core values that align with the needs of our profession. These revisions aim to create a more concise and adaptable framework while maintaining the core principles that underlie librarianship. We appreciate your engagement and invite continued discussions to ensure that the core values continue to evolve in a way that serves the best interests of the library community.

Sara

Thanks, for the question, Rebekah

Please find the two reports to Council.

Sara

Thank you for sharing your concerns and perspectives regarding the proposed changes to  ALA's core values. The decision to reduce the number of core values from 12 to 5 was guided by the desire for a more concise, streamlined, and memorable set of values. While it may seem like a significant reduction, it's important to note that the new core values encompass principles from the previous ones, making them more encompassing and applicable to various aspects of librarianship. The intention is to offer a more focused and easily communicable framework that can serve as a solid foundation for ALA's mission and principles.

It's worth noting that several members of the Core Values Task Force (including myself) are active members of SRRT, and their perspectives were instrumental in shaping these revisions. Furthermore, SRRT Action Council, along with 16 other groups, was actively involved in the survey outreach effort, which included library leaders and stakeholders from a wide range of backgrounds. The data gathered from this survey informed the selection of the top five core values. The goal was to identify values that resonate with the essence of librarianship and reflect the contemporary landscape of libraries and library workers.

Regarding the removal of "Social Responsibility" and "Democracy," it's crucial to highlight that the task force's goal was not to diminish the importance of these values but to consolidate and integrate their underlying principles into the new core values. For example, elements of "Social Responsibility" can be found within the new value of "Equity," which emphasizes fairness and inclusion. Similarly, while "Democracy" as a standalone value was removed, the principles of democratic access to information and intellectual freedom are retained within the new core values.

As we move forward with these revised core values, the intention is to maintain a strong connection with ALA's foundational documents, such as the Library Bill of Rights, Code of Ethics, and Libraries: An American Value. The new core values will not replace these documents but will work in harmony with them, reinforcing our commitment to the principles enshrined within.

The task force is also considering the formation of working groups to draft interpretations of each core value. This will provide opportunities for further expansion and clarification of the values, addressing concerns about the potential loss of nuance.

We recognize the importance of having clear and meaningful core values that align with the needs of our profession. These revisions aim to create a more concise and adaptable framework while maintaining the core principles that underlie librarianship. We appreciate your engagement and invite continued discussions to ensure that the core values continue to evolve in a way that serves the best interests of the library community.

Sara

Thank you, Sara! One thing I'm specifically curious about is: why five values? Considering the wording of the first survey question ("What do you feel are the top five professional values of librarianship?"), it sounds like this number was chosen from the outset and the values were cut down to fit. Again, I understand wanting to reduce the total number of values and combine some of them to be more concise. 

Thanks, for the question, Rebekah

Please find the two reports to Council.

Sara

Thank you for sharing your concerns and perspectives regarding the proposed changes to  ALA's core values. The decision to reduce the number of core values from 12 to 5 was guided by the desire for a more concise, streamlined, and memorable set of values. While it may seem like a significant reduction, it's important to note that the new core values encompass principles from the previous ones, making them more encompassing and applicable to various aspects of librarianship. The intention is to offer a more focused and easily communicable framework that can serve as a solid foundation for ALA's mission and principles.

It's worth noting that several members of the Core Values Task Force (including myself) are active members of SRRT, and their perspectives were instrumental in shaping these revisions. Furthermore, SRRT Action Council, along with 16 other groups, was actively involved in the survey outreach effort, which included library leaders and stakeholders from a wide range of backgrounds. The data gathered from this survey informed the selection of the top five core values. The goal was to identify values that resonate with the essence of librarianship and reflect the contemporary landscape of libraries and library workers.

Regarding the removal of "Social Responsibility" and "Democracy," it's crucial to highlight that the task force's goal was not to diminish the importance of these values but to consolidate and integrate their underlying principles into the new core values. For example, elements of "Social Responsibility" can be found within the new value of "Equity," which emphasizes fairness and inclusion. Similarly, while "Democracy" as a standalone value was removed, the principles of democratic access to information and intellectual freedom are retained within the new core values.

As we move forward with these revised core values, the intention is to maintain a strong connection with ALA's foundational documents, such as the Library Bill of Rights, Code of Ethics, and Libraries: An American Value. The new core values will not replace these documents but will work in harmony with them, reinforcing our commitment to the principles enshrined within.

The task force is also considering the formation of working groups to draft interpretations of each core value. This will provide opportunities for further expansion and clarification of the values, addressing concerns about the potential loss of nuance.

We recognize the importance of having clear and meaningful core values that align with the needs of our profession. These revisions aim to create a more concise and adaptable framework while maintaining the core principles that underlie librarianship. We appreciate your engagement and invite continued discussions to ensure that the core values continue to evolve in a way that serves the best interests of the library community.

Sara

Thank you for sharing your concerns and perspectives regarding the proposed changes to  ALA's core values. The decision to reduce the number of core values from 12 to 5 was guided by the desire for a more concise, streamlined, and memorable set of values. While it may seem like a significant reduction, it's important to note that the new core values encompass principles from the previous ones, making them more encompassing and applicable to various aspects of librarianship. The intention is to offer a more focused and easily communicable framework that can serve as a solid foundation for ALA's mission and principles.

It's worth noting that several members of the Core Values Task Force (including myself) are active members of SRRT, and their perspectives were instrumental in shaping these revisions. Furthermore, SRRT Action Council, along with 16 other groups, was actively involved in the survey outreach effort, which included library leaders and stakeholders from a wide range of backgrounds. The data gathered from this survey informed the selection of the top five core values. The goal was to identify values that resonate with the essence of librarianship and reflect the contemporary landscape of libraries and library workers.

Regarding the removal of "Social Responsibility" and "Democracy," it's crucial to highlight that the task force's goal was not to diminish the importance of these values but to consolidate and integrate their underlying principles into the new core values. For example, elements of "Social Responsibility" can be found within the new value of "Equity," which emphasizes fairness and inclusion. Similarly, while "Democracy" as a standalone value was removed, the principles of democratic access to information and intellectual freedom are retained within the new core values.

As we move forward with these revised core values, the intention is to maintain a strong connection with ALA's foundational documents, such as the Library Bill of Rights, Code of Ethics, and Libraries: An American Value. The new core values will not replace these documents but will work in harmony with them, reinforcing our commitment to the principles enshrined within.

The task force is also considering the formation of working groups to draft interpretations of each core value. This will provide opportunities for further expansion and clarification of the values, addressing concerns about the potential loss of nuance.

We recognize the importance of having clear and meaningful core values that align with the needs of our profession. These revisions aim to create a more concise and adaptable framework while maintaining the core principles that underlie librarianship. We appreciate your engagement and invite continued discussions to ensure that the core values continue to evolve in a way that serves the best interests of the library community.

Sara

Thank you for sharing your concerns and perspectives regarding the proposed changes to  ALA's core values. The decision to reduce the number of core values from 12 to 5 was guided by the desire for a more concise, streamlined, and memorable set of values. While it may seem like a significant reduction, it's important to note that the new core values encompass principles from the previous ones, making them more encompassing and applicable to various aspects of librarianship. The intention is to offer a more focused and easily communicable framework that can serve as a solid foundation for ALA's mission and principles.

It's worth noting that several members of the Core Values Task Force (including myself) are active members of SRRT, and their perspectives were instrumental in shaping these revisions. Furthermore, SRRT Action Council, along with 16 other groups, was actively involved in the survey outreach effort, which included library leaders and stakeholders from a wide range of backgrounds. The data gathered from this survey informed the selection of the top five core values. The goal was to identify values that resonate with the essence of librarianship and reflect the contemporary landscape of libraries and library workers.

Regarding the removal of "Social Responsibility" and "Democracy," it's crucial to highlight that the task force's goal was not to diminish the importance of these values but to consolidate and integrate their underlying principles into the new core values. For example, elements of "Social Responsibility" can be found within the new value of "Equity," which emphasizes fairness and inclusion. Similarly, while "Democracy" as a standalone value was removed, the principles of democratic access to information and intellectual freedom are retained within the new core values.

As we move forward with these revised core values, the intention is to maintain a strong connection with ALA's foundational documents, such as the Library Bill of Rights, Code of Ethics, and Libraries: An American Value. The new core values will not replace these documents but will work in harmony with them, reinforcing our commitment to the principles enshrined within.

The task force is also considering the formation of working groups to draft interpretations of each core value. This will provide opportunities for further expansion and clarification of the values, addressing concerns about the potential loss of nuance.

We recognize the importance of having clear and meaningful core values that align with the needs of our profession. These revisions aim to create a more concise and adaptable framework while maintaining the core principles that underlie librarianship. We appreciate your engagement and invite continued discussions to ensure that the core values continue to evolve in a way that serves the best interests of the library community.

Sara

Thank you for sharing your concerns and perspectives regarding the proposed changes to  ALA's core values. The decision to reduce the number of core values from 12 to 5 was guided by the desire for a more concise, streamlined, and memorable set of values. While it may seem like a significant reduction, it's important to note that the new core values encompass principles from the previous ones, making them more encompassing and applicable to various aspects of librarianship. The intention is to offer a more focused and easily communicable framework that can serve as a solid foundation for ALA's mission and principles.

It's worth noting that several members of the Core Values Task Force (including myself) are active members of SRRT, and their perspectives were instrumental in shaping these revisions. Furthermore, SRRT Action Council, along with 16 other groups, was actively involved in the survey outreach effort, which included library leaders and stakeholders from a wide range of backgrounds. The data gathered from this survey informed the selection of the top five core values. The goal was to identify values that resonate with the essence of librarianship and reflect the contemporary landscape of libraries and library workers.

Regarding the removal of "Social Responsibility" and "Democracy," it's crucial to highlight that the task force's goal was not to diminish the importance of these values but to consolidate and integrate their underlying principles into the new core values. For example, elements of "Social Responsibility" can be found within the new value of "Equity," which emphasizes fairness and inclusion. Similarly, while "Democracy" as a standalone value was removed, the principles of democratic access to information and intellectual freedom are retained within the new core values.

As we move forward with these revised core values, the intention is to maintain a strong connection with ALA's foundational documents, such as the Library Bill of Rights, Code of Ethics, and Libraries: An American Value. The new core values will not replace these documents but will work in harmony with them, reinforcing our commitment to the principles enshrined within.

The task force is also considering the formation of working groups to draft interpretations of each core value. This will provide opportunities for further expansion and clarification of the values, addressing concerns about the potential loss of nuance.

We recognize the importance of having clear and meaningful core values that align with the needs of our profession. These revisions aim to create a more concise and adaptable framework while maintaining the core principles that underlie librarianship. We appreciate your engagement and invite continued discussions to ensure that the core values continue to evolve in a way that serves the best interests of the library community.

Sara