Librarians and intellectual self-defence

Abstract

This article examines the state of freedom of expression in South Africa. Recent incidents suggest that this right is under pressure. Examples discussed include cases of disciplinary action taken against people who have spoken out about pressing issues of public concern, and a growing number of censorious laws. Librarians need to organize to counter these threats that stifle independent thinking. Pressure on freedom of expression will catch up with librarians in the long run, and prevent them from practising one of the foundational values of librarianship, namely to promote access to information.