Intellectual Freedom at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library
What is Intellectual Freedom?
Intellectual Freedom is the right of every individual to both seek and receive information from all points of view without restriction. It provides for free access to all expressions of ideas through which any and all sides of a question, cause or movement may be explored.
How is it Different from Freedom of Speech?
The First Amendment’s right to freedom of expression encompasses intellectual freedom, which includes an individual’s right to receive information on a wide range of topics from a variety of viewpoints.
Freedom to Read Week
Libraries across America celebrate Freedom to Read Week, also known as Banned Books Week, in support of free expression and the dangers of censorship. In honor of this year’s celebration, which takes place nationally on October 5-11, 2025, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is providing programming for ages 0-18 to celebrate intellectual freedom, First Amendment rights, and raise awareness for youth and teens about censorship and book banning.
Why Do We Support Intellectual Freedom?
A public library is a collection of information, sources, resources, and services organized for use and maintained by taxes at the municipal level, district level covering several municipalities, county, state, or federal level. As a public library, CML is obligated to provide a collection for people as a whole thus eliminating any opportunity for censorship. The definition of “public” is of or concerning the people as a whole.
What Can You Do?
The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their services. To learn more about Intellectual freedom and how you can combat censorship, visit the American Library Association's website and get involved.
Explore More
View our Flickr album of current and past Freedom to Read displays in our library branches.