A library is not a theoretical thing: it is part of the total social fabric. To ignore public opinion is to invite the kind of retaliation that would severely cripple the library's ability to operate. (Author)

A library should be a place where a person is free to turn on sexually as well as intellectually." (Author)

Identifies two types of censors--individuals and representatives of organized groups or crusades--and examines factors that motivate their attempts at library censorship. Factors influencing librarians dealing with censorship are also discussed. Librarians are advised to prepare themselves to live with censorship by learning to understand…

Identifies trends and their implications in library-related developments such as conglomeration in publishing; growth of right-fundamentalist influence in radio, television, and book industries; technological developments; and increasing variety of media (e.g. videodiscs) to be managed by libraries. (SW)