In class we focus a lot on the ALA Code of Ethics and examined different situations where we may need to refer to the code of ethics to see if we are still overall being ethical in our decision making. I think one thing that is really important when looking over a code of ethics to see if any revisions need to be made is to keep in mind that ethics are about the endpoint, what you strive for. Ethics are not representative of what you actually do. Sometimes, when I'm asked to look at a code of ethics, I start thinking "Well ... that's not actually what is happening". Then I have to step back and be like "Oh yeah! Ethics are there as a goal to help us get to a "good"! So that was definitely something I had to keep in mind during class tonight.
With that said, our cohort once again was the oddballs. First we claimed blogging was dying, and now we claimed there was no revision needed for the ALA Code of Ethics yet. Maybe we just subconsciously all enjoy going against the grain? I look at it and see a really solid framework, that is vague enough to apply for multiple situations no matter the technology. I think that is important. Bringing in specifics to technology (etc.) I think detracts from the overall purpose. Ethics isn't about specifics, it's about big theoretical qualms.
I also enjoyed the discussion on partnerships with local businesses and libraries, such as advertising for business on library receipts or elsewhere. It's a hard one to juggle. Libraries are great places to build community, and rally around the culture of that community. So, at first it seems like a great idea to support local businesses! But what if a local business is a strip club? Then you have to start making decisions of what is appropriate for your library. Since a library is suppose to be a place of neutrality this gets real iffy. I wonder if this were to take off, if will be seeing more policies directed towards these business partnerships, what is in the scope ore out of the scope for the library and how will we ethically be making these decisions so it does not detract from the ALA Code of Ethics? And if it does detract, will we need to revise the code or is it okay to not always follow the code?
Definitely some interesting food for thought to chew on!
"Maybe we just subconsciously all enjoy going against the grain?" :)
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