MLS FREE MLS - Master of Library and Information Science Professional Foundations and Ethics Questions and Answers 2

Question 1

Which ALA policy document specifically addresses the ethical responsibilities of library professionals regarding user privacy?

Accepted Answer

Code of Ethics of the American Library Association

Answer

Library Bill of Rights

Answer

Freedom to Read Statement

Answer

Guidelines for Implementing the Patron Confidentiality Policies

Question 2

What is the primary purpose of a collection development policy in a public library?

Accepted Answer

To provide a framework for selecting and deselecting materials based on community needs

Answer

To reduce the library's budget for acquisitions

Answer

To ensure only popular materials are purchased

Answer

To prevent any controversial materials from entering the collection

Question 3

In the context of information ethics, what does the concept of 'informed consent' require of library professionals?

Accepted Answer

Telling patrons what data is collected about them and how it will be used

Answer

Notifying patrons before sharing their borrowing records with law enforcement without a court order

Answer

Requiring patrons to sign a waiver before using library computers

Answer

Asking patrons to agree to censorship of certain materials

Question 4

Which foundational principle of librarianship supports providing equitable access to information regardless of a patron's socioeconomic status?

Accepted Answer

Equity of access

Answer

Intellectual freedom

Answer

Social responsibility

Answer

Democracy of knowledge

Question 5

A librarian receives a request from a parent to restrict their teenager's access to certain library materials. According to ALA guidelines, what is the most appropriate response?

Accepted Answer

Explain that the library does not restrict access based on age and that parents are responsible for their own children's use

Answer

Immediately restrict the teenager's account as the parent requests

Answer

Remove the materials from the library's collection

Answer

Require the teenager to get parental approval for each checkout

Question 6

What ethical obligation does a reference librarian have when personally disagreeing with the viewpoint expressed in a patron's research topic?

Accepted Answer

Offer the same quality of assistance as with any other reference question

Answer

Decline to assist with the research request

Answer

Provide alternative topics that align with mainstream views

Answer

Refer the patron to another librarian who may be more sympathetic