Library News

After-lunch course with Pat Wagner: Ethics

NEKLS

One common definition of ethics is the study of good and evil and right and wrong. In practical terms, a code of ethics establishes guidelines and processes for making decisions and taking action. Four principles that support ethical behavior in libraries are transparency, privacy, access to information, and fair and equal treatment. In turbulent times, communicating these principles to the public and library personnel, and adhering to the letter and spirit of their ideas, can earn the trust and respect of your community and institution, even among people who disagree with you. And earn your staff and leadership a good night’s sleep when you have to make difficult decisions.

Topics include a brief history of the origins of library ethics, four principles of ethics, how they are embedded in current management and governance practices, and conflicting ethical codes in the library community.

From this webinar, you will know how to:

1. Review library policies based on these four principles.
2. Discuss with your stakeholders one process of ethical decision-making before there is a crisis.
3. Incorporate ethical standards in the library strategic plan, contracts, and job descriptions.

Pat Wagner has been a library trainer and consultant since 1978. She specializes in those skills that support the success of libraries, such as supervision, project management, marketing, strategic planning, leadership, ethics, and customer service, and is known for her good-humored and practical programs. She is a frequent visitor to Kansas libraries going back to the 1996 KLA/MPLA conference!

*Special thanks to the creator for sharing