Summer+2008+Question+4

** as of yet no one overarching ethical code that includes a variety of information ** ** professionals. Discuss three major principles that might be included in such a **
 * 4. Many disciplines of the information professions have codes of ethics, but there is **
 * code.

Answer: Matt **
 * There are, of course, many more than three major principles that I feel are important to any universal code of ethics for information professionals, but I would consider these three indispensible: **
 * ** Protection of intellectual freedom  **
 * ** Protecting intellectual freedom is a cornerstone of the information professions, and it is a multifaceted issue. The threat of censorship is one of the major areas of concern that this principle addresses, but it also covers issues such as access to information and information technologies, protection of intellectual property rights, and freedom of speech and expression as well.  **
 * ** Confidentiality  **
 * ** Trust is one of the central tenants of any relationship where personal information is accessed and shared between individuals and institutions. By establishing standards that protect the confidential relationships that exist between information professionals and those they serve, we are creating havens where those individuals can feel free to express themselves fully without fear of being “outed” or facing other repercussions related to the sharing of that information. Without this foundation of trust, it is practically impossible for information professionals to provide services that are of value since they can never be certain that the true information need is being expressed by the customer.   **
 * ** Commitment to service  **
 * ** This a fairly broad category that covers everything from a commitment to lifelong learning and professional development, provision of the highest possible level of customer services to all, as well as the need to promote professionalism within the ranks of paraprofessional library workers. This principle also demands that we put aside our personal beliefs and mores in our service to both internal and external customers, just as we provide services equitably and without bias.  **