Topic 1: 美国公共图书馆法：原则、判例及发展Library Law: Principles, Cases, Development

刘朱胜Clement Chu-Sing Lau

 

摘要：本专题报告旨在对美国图书馆，特别是公共图书馆，法律环境的发展做一个概述。报告首先就美国图书馆的法律体系和政策框架做简要描述。然后介绍公共图书馆的法律依据、权力来源以及那些会对公共图书馆运行产生影响的联邦、州和地方层面的法律规章。报告将重点探讨一些对图书馆建设具有重大和直接影响的法律和政策，并通过几个案例研究来介绍公共图书馆日常可能面临的一些法律问题。报告也会简介美国图书馆业界的行业自律机制和操守准则。报告的目的是希望通过认识法律在建设图书馆事业的作用和了解那些可能影响图书馆事业发展的法律，帮助图书馆更好地完善其政策、应付其潜在的法律问题并减少其法律责任风险。

 

Abstract: This presentation will provide an overview of the development of the legal environment of American libraries with special attention to the public library setting. It will begin with an introduction to the overall legal and policy framework in which libraries operate. The presentation will turn its focus to examining the legal basis for public libraries, their sources of authority, and the laws, rules and regulations of the federal, state, and local level that affect their operations. Attention will also be given to reviewing key laws and policies that are directly related to libraries. Case studies on legal issues that public libraries are likely to be involved in on a daily basis will be discussed.

This presentation will discuss the self-regulation and voluntary codes of conduct set by library professional groups. It is hoped that by understanding the role of law in shaping library development and specific laws that affect library operations, such awareness will help the library better develop its policies, respond to potential legal issues, and reduce its legal liability risks.