Ask the Library

Mid-America Christian University
Challenged University Library Materials Policy

Mid-America Christian University, as stated in the Mission Statement, “prepares students
through a Wesleyan perspective to create, collaborate, and innovate to solve local and global
problems for the glory of God through Jesus Christ and the good of society.” In alignment with
this mission, the University Library strives to develop information-literate students and faculty
who can effectively identify, access, utilize, create, and evaluate information resources. Free
access to ideas and freedom of expression are fundamental to the educational process. To balance
individual perspectives with communal responsibility, the University Library will consider the
American Library Association Library Bill of Rights and the University Mission Statement when
library materials are questioned.

A. The resources acquired for the University Library are selected by librarians and
professors to meet the teaching, research, and curricular needs of Mid-America Christian
University. Appearance of any resources does not mean the library advocates or endorses
the ideas in that resource or the author's actions.
B. Current students, alumni, faculty, emeritus faculty, and staff may appeal resources in the
University Library collection.
C. Those concerned about material in the University Library collection are asked to speak
with the Director of Library Services by phone or in person.
D. If further resolution is needed, they must submit their request in writing to the Director of
Library Services using the "Challenged University Library Materials Policy Form."
E. Challenged items will remain on the shelf and available to other users during the duration
of the challenge.
F. The Director of Library Services will convene a group to consider the request. The group
will include a member of the library's staff, a member of the University Senate, a
representative from Curriculum Services, and a faculty member from the appropriate
content area.
G. Possible outcomes might include removing an item, adding source(s) to balance the
collection by providing alternative views, or no change.
H. The Director of Library Services will notify the person making the challenge of the
decision, as well as the person’s right to appeal, within 30 days of receiving the written
request.
I. If the person making the challenge is unsatisfied with the decision, they may submit an
appeal in writing to the Vice President for Academic Affairs and University President
within twenty (20) business days of receiving the decision from the Director of Library
Services.

Challenged University Library Materials Form
In alignment with the mission of Mid-America Christian University, the University Library
strives to develop information-literate students and faculty who can effectively identify, access,
utilize, create, and evaluate information resources. Free access to ideas and freedom of
expression are fundamental to the educational process. If you have spoken with the Director of
Library Services regarding your concern and wish to continue the process, please fill out this
form. 

This form is linked in the FAQ. See below.

Library Services (Li) Rev. 3.12.2024