Atla Annual 2025

Librarians, including theological librarians, are commonly considered to be, and generally aspire to be, neutral. Regardless of personal feelings and beliefs, we will gladly help you find a copy of Mein Kampf, The Communist Manifesto, Late Great Planet Earth, or Malleus Maleficarum. Such professional neutrality seems especially precious, and threatened, in our increasingly polarized culture. Yet, are there ever times when it may be appropriate to set aspirations to neutrality and objectivity aside, and share our convictions? When, if ever, might if be acceptable to state our opinions or express our beliefs when conducting a reference interview or providing feedback on a student’s paper? Is neutrality even possible? How does neutrality relate to equity? This session will provide an opportunity to consider, debate, and discuss these important questions.

Learning Outcome

Attendees will come away with a greater, if more nuanced, appreciation for the complexities inherent in the professional aspiration toward neutrality and objectivity. At the same time, they will come away with a deeper understanding of the reasons it may at times be necessary and appropriate to set aside this aspiration. Such insights can help guide both reference interviews with students and acquisitions decisions.

Audience Engagement

We plan to engage our audience by considering timely and urgent questions that touch on the heart of our professional identity. We will also offer an opportunity for them to share their own insights and concerns in the discussion.