Full Description
Learning the basic concepts of information law and the many legal concepts that come into play in the field of librarianship can seem like an overwhelming endeavor. Drawing upon the authors' unique backgrounds in both law and librarianship, this text is designed to empower readers to understand, rather than be intimidated by, the law. It melds essential context, salient examples of best practices, and stimulating discussions to illuminate numerous key legal and social issues directly related to the information professions. Helping readers better understand the role of law in their work, this primer
discusses information law as part of a continuum of interrelated issues rather than an assortment of discrete topics;
examines information law in the context of different types of libraries;
delves into the manifold legal issues raised when interacting with patrons and communities, from intellectual freedom topics like censorship and public activities in the library to the legal issues surrounding materials and information access;
elucidates operational and management legal issues, including library security, interacting with law enforcement, advocacy, lobbying, funding, human resources, and liability;
promotes literacy of the law, its structures, and its terminology as a professional skill;
gives readers the tools to find and understand different sources of legal authority and demonstrates how to interpret them when they conflict; and
explores information law as a national and cross-national issue.
Contents
Acknowledgments
List of Acronyms and Abbreviations
Chapter 1. Searching for Information (Law)
Chapter 2. Structures and Terminology of the Law
Chapter 3. Sources of Legal Rules: Statutes, Regulations, and Constitutions
Chapter 4. Sources of Legal Rules: Reading and Understanding Case Law
Chapter 5. Laws and Intellectual Freedom
Chapter 6. Laws and Intellectual Property
Chapter 7. Laws and Information Access
Chapter 8. Laws and Law Enforcement
Chapter 9. Laws and Professional Practice
Chapter 10. Information and Law and the Future
References
About the Authors
Index
