The Ethics of Reference Service for the Public Librarian

Abstract

The ethics of library service are concepts that novice librarians must be educated to, and believe in. Supervisors must make sure that trainees understand the basic documents published by the American Library Association, The Library Bill of Rights, and The Statement on Professional Ethics. Not only the precepts of intellectual freedom, and confidentiality of library records and reference transactions are involved in observing the tenets of these documents, however. Equal treatment for all means equally courteous and thoughtful treatment of all the patrons one serves. Personal beliefs and prejudices make perfection in complying with the ideal difficult, but every librarian must try to live by the ideal in all dealings with the public. The rewards of this behavior are not only those of knowing that one has done one's best, but the contribution made to the success of the employing institution.