The American Library Association (ALA) defines a challenge to literature as an attempt by a person or group of people to have materials, such as books, removed from a library or school curriculum, or otherwise restricted.
The resources acquired for the DACC Library are selected to meet the teaching, research, and service missions of the College. Appearance of any resource does not mean that the Library advocates or endorses the ideas found in that resource. The Library adhere to the principles of intellectual freedom as outlined in the Library Bill of Rights of the American Library Association. It is the responsibility of the Library to ensure that different points of view are represented in the collection.
The Library Bill of Rights of the American Library Association states “Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation” (Article 1); and “Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval” (Article 2 ). The Library also endorses the Freedom to Read Statement, provided by the American Library Association.
Academic Freedom is also required and protected by New Mexico State University Administrative Rules and Procedures. “The quest for truth often leads the scholar into difficult and untried territory. As a dealer in ideas, the teacher or researcher comes often in conflict with prevailing belief of large segments of society and even with those of colleagues. Yet, because of the practical benefits of scholarly activity, it is profoundly important that this diversity of ideas be not only tolerated, but encouraged.” (Chapter 3: Ethics, Equity, and Equal Opportunity – 3.70 -Academic Freedom
Resources in the DACC Libraries may be challenged by students, faculty and staff of Dona Ana Community College and those persons who are residents of the state of New Mexico. A challenge to a resource in the Library must be based on the failure of that resource to fall within the Library's collection development policy, including the commitment to intellectual freedom. When challenging an item, the patron may request the library take one of two actions; (1) removal of an item because it is inappropriate, or (2) the addition of a source to balance the collection by providing alternative views. The Library may agree to take either action or no action at all. Challenged items will remain on the shelf and available to Library Users during the duration of the challenge.
Those persons wishing to challenge a resource in the DACC Library will be asked to complete a Request for Reconsideration of Library Resources form (please contact the Library Director for a form). The completed form will be submitted to the Library director; the Director will acknowledge receipt of the form via letter. The Request will then be considered by a Committee of Librarians and Teaching Faculty. A librarian responsible for collection development in the subject area of the resource and a faculty member who teaches in the subject area of the resource will serve on the committee. The recommendation(s) of the Committee will be sent to the Library Director, who will make the final decision. The person making the challenge will be notified in writing of the Director's decision and any action to be taken. The appeals process goes first to the Vice President of Academic Affairs and then to the President/Chancellor of the College.
Adapted from Clemson University Library Challenged Materials Policy, 12/6/2023
