Code of Conduct

Online Code of Conduct

Participation on this site is regulated by ALA’s Online Code of Conduct.


Code of Conduct for In-person Events

Core: Leadership, Infrastructure, Futures holds online webinars, courses, email discussions, an in-person Forum, and other events to enable its members to receive continuing education, build professional networks, and discover new products and services for professional use. To provide all participants—members and other attendees, speakers, staff, and volunteers—the opportunity to benefit from such events, Core, as a division of the American Library Association (ALA), is committed to providing a harassment-free environment for everyone, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, physical appearance, ethnicity, religion, or other group identity.

Core is strongly committed to diversity, equity, and the free expression of ideas. These values have been repeatedly delineated in ALA policy (for instance: Policy A.1.4 – Core Organizational Values; Policy B.1.1 – Core Values of Librarianship; Policy B.1.2 – Code of Professional Ethics). Taken cumulatively, the values and beliefs delineated within ALA policy describe conduct based on a firm belief in the value of civil discourse and the free exploration of competing ideas and concepts—with a fundamental respect for the rights, dignity, and value of all persons.

Within the context of ALA policy and the professional practices of librarianship, critical examination of beliefs and viewpoints does not, by itself, constitute hostile conduct or harassment. Similarly, use of sexual imagery or language in the context of a professional discussion might not constitute hostile conduct or harassment. Core seeks to provide an online environment in which diverse participants may learn, network, and enjoy the company of colleagues in an environment of mutual human respect. We recognize a shared responsibility to create and hold that environment for the benefit of all. Some behaviors are, therefore, specifically prohibited:

  • Harassment or intimidation based on race, religion, language, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, appearance, or other group status.
  • Sexual harassment or intimidation, including unwelcome sexual attention or stalking (physical or virtual).
  • Yelling at or threatening speakers (verbally or physically). 

Speakers are asked to frame discussions as openly and inclusively as possible and to be aware of how language or images may be perceived by others. Participants may—and do—exercise the “law of two feet.” 

All participants are expected to observe these rules and behaviors in all online events, including webinars, online courses, and email discussion through Core lists. Participants asked to stop a hostile or harassing behavior are expected to comply immediately. Participants in Core online events seek to learn, network, and have fun. Please do so responsibly and with respect for the right of others to do likewise.

Please contact Core staff if you believe you have been harassed or that a harassment problem exists. All such reports will be directed immediately to the Core Executive Director, who will determine and carry out the appropriate course of action, and who may consult with and engage other ALA staff, leaders, and legal counsel as appropriate. Local law enforcement may be involved, as appropriate based on the specific circumstances. A follow-up report will be made to individuals who report being harassed.

Report incidents of any sort to Julie Reese, Core Interim Executive Director, by contacting jreese@ala.org or 312-280-5030.