Persatuan Pustakawan
Malaysia (Librarians Association of Malaysia)
Code of ethics
Preamble
The purpose of drawing up a code of ethics for the Librarians is to help set standards
of professional conduct expected of members in line with the aims and objectives of the
Association. It will also help regulate professional behavior in terms of safeguarding the
interests of the community served. As librarians significantly influence or control the
selection, organisation, preservation and dissemination of information, they are entrusted
with the responsibility to provide their clientele access to information. Hence a code of
ethics is vital in defining their professional responsibility.
The National Information Policy which was formulated in 1989 provides a framework to
guide the free flow of information to all sectors of the Malaysian population. It does
not, however, include the role and responsibility of the librarian in the provision of
information services – perhaps a reflection of the ‘low-key’ image accorded
to librarians in this country. A written code of ethics to guide their professional
conduct will certainly help enhance the professional image of librarians.
Code of Ethics
- Librarians must uphold and maintain the principles as laid down in the Constitution of
the Librarians Association of Malaysia. In addition to this, they:
- Must provide the highest level of service to library users through appropriate and
usefully organized resources, equitable service policies and accurate, unbiased and
courteous response to all requests. Must strive for excellence in the profession by
maintaining and enhancing their knowledge and skills, and keeping abreast of developments
in librarianship
- Should uphold the principle of intellectual freedom and allow users to have free and
equal access to sources of information without discrimination, within the limits of the
law.
- Must protect the library user’s right to privacy and confidentiality with respect
to information sought or received, and materials consulted or borrowed.
- Must distinguish between personal philosophy or attitudes and professional duties by not
allowing personal beliefs to interfere with aims of the institution or professional body.
- Must avoid situations in which personal interests and gains may be advanced at the
expense of library users, colleagues or employing institutions.
- Must ensure that actions and decisions are determined solely by professional judgement;
librarians should not profit from their position other than by normal remuneration or fee
for professional services.
- Must treat co-workers and fellow librarians with respect, fairness and goodwill.
