Ethics, Values, and Foundational Principles of the Information Profession

Statement of Competency:
Demonstrate awareness of the ethics, values, and foundational principles of one of the information professions, and discuss the importance of those principles within that profession.

This competency focuses on understanding the ethical framework that guides the information profession and applying those prinicples in real-world contexts.

Introduction

The library and information science (LIS) profession is grounded in core principles that emphasize equitable access to information, intellectual freedom, and service to diverse communities. Competency A focuses on understanding these foundational values and how they inform professional practice. Information professionals must not only provide access to resources, but also understand how individuals and communities seek, evaluate, and use information within different social and cultural contexts. Ethics in LIS are not simply theoretical guidelines, but practical tools that shape everyday decisions, influencing how information is organized, accessed, and shared (Hirsh, 2022).

The American Library Association (ALA) Code of Ethics provides a widely recognized framework for ethical practice in the field, emphasizing equitable access, intellectual freedom, privacy, and the responsibility to provide accurate and unbiased service (American Library Association, 2021). These principles are reinforced through documents such as the Library Bill of Rights, which highlights the importance of protecting access to diverse perspectives and resisting censorship (American Library Association, 2019). Together, these frameworks establish the professional responsibility of information professionals to advocate for inclusive and equitable information environments.

Scholars such as Fisher and Fulton (2022) define information communities as groups of people who share common information needs and engage in collaborative information exchange. Understanding these communities is essential to providing effective and inclusive services. Similarly, Savolainen’s (1995) Everyday Life Information Seeking (ELIS) model highlights how information behavior is shaped by individuals’ daily lives, values, and environments. These frameworks reinforce that information services must be responsive to the lived experiences of users, rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.

Through my coursework, I developed a deeper understanding of how these foundational principles guide the profession. By examining information communities, reflecting on my professional goals, and applying ethical concepts to contemporary issues, I gained insight into the role of information professionals as facilitators of access, advocates for equity, and stewards of information.

Evidence

My understanding of the foundational principles of the library and information science profession developed through coursework that emphasized both theoretical frameworks and real-world application. Assignments from INFO 200, INFO 204, and INFO 281 allowed me to examine how information communities function, reflect on my role within the profession, and apply ethical principles to contemporary issues. Through research, reflection, and analysis, I explored how values such as access, equity, and user-centered service are not only guiding principles, but essential components of effective and responsible information practice.

Artifact #1

Justification

This artifact demonstrates my understanding of information communities and the theoretical foundations that guide information services. In this project, I examined the information-seeking behaviors of a specific community—pet owners who view their pets as family members—and analyzed how they access, evaluate, and share information. In defining this community, I identified how individuals rely on a variety of sources, including digital platforms, experts, and peer networks, to meet their information needs. I also highlighted the importance of accurate and accessible information in supporting informed decision-making, particularly in areas such as pet health and care . This aligns with Fisher and Fulton’s (2022) framework, which emphasizes shared values and collaborative information exchange within communities. Additionally, the matrix allowed me to apply theoretical models such as Savolainen’s (1995) ELIS framework, which considers how everyday life contexts influence information-seeking behavior. By analyzing multiple scholarly sources, I developed a more nuanced understanding of how social, cultural, and technological factors shape information access and use. This artifact supports Competency A by demonstrating my ability to connect theory to practice, analyze information behavior, and recognize the importance of tailoring information services to the needs of specific communities.

Artifact #2

Justification

This artifact reflects my developing understanding of the values and responsibilities of the LIS profession through exploration of a desired career path. In this assignment, I examined the role of a Special Collections Archivist and identified the skills, knowledge, and professional values necessary to succeed in the field. Through this reflection, I recognized the importance of balancing preservation with access, particularly in archival work. I articulated my goal of expanding access to information through digitization while preserving historical materials for future generations. This aligns with core LIS values such as stewardship, access, and the ethical responsibility to make information available to diverse audiences. The assignment also highlighted the importance of communication, outreach, and community engagement in professional practice. By considering how archives can share stories and connect with broader audiences, I began to understand the role of information professionals as active participants in shaping how knowledge is preserved and shared. This artifact supports Competency A by demonstrating my ability to reflect on professional values, connect them to real-world roles, and articulate how I will apply these principles in my career.

Artifact #3

Justification

This artifact demonstrates my ability to apply ethical principles to contemporary issues in the information field. In this assignment, I addressed the misconception that open educational resources (OER) are not sustainable and examined how these resources support equitable access to educational materials. I argued that OER reduce financial barriers and increase access to information, particularly for students who may not have the resources to purchase traditional textbooks. This directly reflects the ethical commitment within LIS to promote access and reduce inequities in information availability. By analyzing funding models, collaborative practices, and institutional support, I demonstrated how OER can be sustained while continuing to benefit diverse user populations. This work also required critical evaluation of information sources and consideration of real-world constraints, reinforcing that ethical decision-making often involves balancing ideals with practical implementation. This artifact supports Competency A by demonstrating my ability to apply foundational LIS values to current issues and advocate for equitable access in digital environments.

Conclusion

Together, these artifacts show a progression in my understanding of ethics. I moved from learning about foundational principles, to reflecting on their meaning, to applying them in practical contexts. They demonstrate my ability to think critically about professional values and recognize their relevance across areas of varying information management. As I continue toward a career in digital librarianship and information management, the ethical principles of the information profession will remain central to my work. I plan to apply these values by supporting inclusive information systems, promoting equitable access, and maintaining a strong commitment to privacy and intellectual freedom. To remain current, I will continue to engage with professional organizations such as the American Library Association and follow ongoing discussions about information ethics and emerging challenges in the field. By staying informed and reflective, I will be better prepared to navigate ethical decisions and contribute responsibly to the profession.

References

American Library Association. (2019). Library bill of rights. https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/librarybill

American Library Association. (2021). Code of ethics of the American Library Association. https://www.ala.org/tools/ethics

Fisher, K. E., & Fulton, C. (2022). Information communities. In S. Hirsh (Ed.), Information services today: An introduction (3rd ed.). Rowman & Littlefield.

Hirsh, S. (2022). Information services today: An introduction (3rd ed.). Rowman & Littlefield.

Savolainen, R. (1995). Everyday life information seeking: Approaching information seeking in the context of “way of life.” Library & Information Science Research, 17(3), 259–294.