In support of its mission "to inspire reading, advance learning and connect our community," Nashville Public Library (NPL) fully endorses the principles documented in the Library Bill of Rights and the Freedom to Read Statement of the American Library Association. Materials available in the Library present a diversity of viewpoints, enabling citizens to make the informed choices necessary in a democracy. NPL also selects a wide variety of library materials that satisfy the diverse interests of our community. The Library upholds the right of the individual to secure these resources, even though the content may be controversial, unorthodox, or unacceptable to some. The Library’s varied collection is available to all; however, it is not expected that all of the collection will appeal to everyone.

Customers who wish to request the withdrawal or reclassification of materials currently owned by the Library are encouraged to discuss their concerns with a Manager. If the customer is not satisfied with the response of the Manager to their request, the Manager will give the customer a packet that includes:

• NPL’s Collection Development Policy
• The Library Bill of Rights
• The “Freedom to Read” statement of the American Library Association
• Contact information for the Head of Collection Development
• “Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials” Form

If, after reviewing the packet, the customer wants to proceed with their request, a signed “Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials” may be submitted to the Head of Collection Development. This will begin the formal reconsideration process. Anonymous complaints in writing or by other means are not honored. No action will be taken to remove or restrict access to any materials until a final decision has been made by the Library.

Revised March 2016, Materials Management Committee