Libraries are champions of information independence and
freedom of information. This even applies to children, in which their rights
are recognized. In public libraries, children have the same rights to privacy
and the same ability to check out materials as any adult. However, children are
not truly represented in children’s literature because these materials are made
by adults and chosen by adults. Is it really the adult’s interpretation of
childhood?
There is a distinct lack of involvement by minors in
collection development. However, it has been shown that children prefer
recommendations from siblings, friends, and other children over those of their
parents, teachers, or librarians. They are active participants in literature
but do not actively participate in collection development as other age groups
do such as teen coalitions or adults. It may be possible to recognize the
competence of children and hear their opinions. Librarians should understand that
while children may not be fully independent, their collective experiences are
still valuable.
Aggleton, J. (2018). Where are the children in children’s
collection? An exploration of ethical principles and practical concerns
surrounding children’s participation in collection development. New Review of Children’s Literature and
Librarianship, 24(1), 1-17. Doi:10.1080/13614541.2018.1429122
