Freedom of Inquiry

The work of IU Bloomington Libraries is guided by Indiana University’s commitment to academic freedom as a core principle of public education in a democratic society. We are passionate about providing the widest possible access to everyone who walks through our doors or visits our websites. Whether you’re a first-year student at the beginning of your research journey or a faculty member in the midst of a years-long project, we connect you to the resources that support your intellectual pursuits.

Our efforts are shaped by these core precepts:

Free Inquiry

We believe that transformative research and robust academic discourse depend upon the liberty of every individual to pursue their desired subjects and lines of inquiry unfettered by political or ideological restraints. As such, we commit to supporting the work of all who seek to use our resources by offering expertise and insight free from bias and judgment.

Broad Access

We believe that robust public discourse is possible only when quality resources reflecting myriad viewpoints are available and accessible to all. As such, we strive to lower the barriers between researchers and the materials they need, and to provide our users with as many different resources and research pathways as possible.

Privacy & Trust

We believe that individuals in a democratic society have the right to intellectual exploration free from surveillance and intrusive data collection. As such, we prioritize the privacy and anonymity of individual users who access materials through our various platforms, and we commit to the highest standards of data security. 

Supporting Principles

Indiana University's official policy on the protection and promotion of academic freedom.

The American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights outlines the contours of academic freedom for institutions and the users who rely on their services and materials. 

The American Library Association's Code of Ethics translates the values of intellectual freedom that define the profession of librarianship into broad principles.