Managing Intellectual Freedom Through Key Library Policies

Thursday, June 18
10:00–11:00 AM

Strong policies do more than guide day-to-day operations—they help libraries respond consistently, uphold intellectual freedom, and reduce legal risk when difficult situations arise—but only if they're clear, current, and consistently applied.

Join MLA and Attorney Anne Seurynck on Zoom this Thursday for our June Advocacy Hour and take a practical look at the library policies that most often raise intellectual freedom concerns, with a focus on patron behavior, materials selection (collection development), and meeting room use. It will highlight common problem areas, including policies that rely on vague language or attempt to regulate content, and explain why those approaches can create issues for libraries.

The session will also offer straightforward guidance on how to draft and revise these policies so they are clear, neutral, and consistently applied in day-to-day operations. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of how to maintain a safe and well-managed library while respecting patrons' rights and reducing the risk of legal challenges.

Whether you're reviewing current policies or planning updates, this session will help you identify key areas of concern and make practical improvements that strengthen clarity, consistency, and compliance. 

Register

Speaker

Anne Seurynck, Attorney, Foster, Swift, Collin & Smith, PC, has been practicing with Foster Swift's Administrative and Municipal Practice Group since her arrival at the firm. She currently serves as the firm President and Chair of the Executive Committee. Her entire career has focused on the representation of municipalities and public entities. Anne has extensive experience representing public libraries.

Advocacy Hour conversations are always free to attend but registration is required. 

MLA Connect Advocacy Hours are an opportunity for the library community to learn more about MLA's advocacy and legislative priorities including funding, elections, property taxes, literacy, internet access, privacy, intellectual freedom, and more. Each month, we will address a new topic and share any pending legislation introduced in the House or Senate that could impact the Michigan library community. Open discussion and Q & A will follow the interview-style agenda.

Monthly sessions will take place generally on the third Thursday of the month at 10:00 AM. Advocacy Hours are free to attend to anyone interested in joining the conversation! A maximum of 500 attendees can join each live event. Registered attendees will receive information and a link to access the meetings on the Zoom platform. 

Please note recordings of all MLA Advocacy Hours are available to watch for free and on-demand at MLA Connect On-Demand.