librarian.net at the DNC

July 29, 2004

meanwhile, outside the Fleet Center

Once again, I'm updating from the library where there were roughly 50 cops parked on the front patio when I arrived. I'll have some photos tomorrow. When I ran into BPL president Bernie Margolis yesterday in the cafe, I asked him what he thought about [what I perceived as] the lack of library-relevant topics coming up at the DNC. As we all know, if an issue isn't going to persuade the swing states, it won't be too visible on the platform. So, we get to hear a lot of talks from generals and "god, war and family" talk, but precious little about eroding civil liberties [Obama was an exception], the USA PATRIOT Act or other nefarious government intrusions into the public sphere. His response was quick and clearly pre-considered...

Roughly paraphrased, he said he'd been talking to local politicians, notably Mike Capuano, and said "We're willing to go to jail over the USA PATRIOT Act" I like that kind of talk, I think it will move things forward.

This morning, on the ALA Council list, as people debated what to do over the DoJ memo flap, he confirmed what he'd told me yesterday, that he was prepared to contest the request for the destruction of documents, and gave concrete examples of what other libraries should do.

I have taken several actions which I would like to encourage others to follow in whatever manner is comfortable.

First, I have written (snail mail) Judy Russell (SUDox) requesting verification of her e-mail. With all of the concern about authentication how can we be sure of the e-mail’s origin? I have asked for info on the process followed for removal. I have also asked why the request was not to return the items but rather to destroy them. (I will not destroy these documents.)

Next, I have written Lester Joseph, asking him to reconsider his request to SUDox. I believe all he really wanted was that new editions/publications not be placed in the depository system. I do not believe, based on our phone conversation, that he actually wanted these to be destroyed.

Third, I have spoken with the Boston Globe about a possible editorial. I hope this will happen. Encourage your newspaper.

Fourth, I have copied the five documents and they are being cataloged as part of the Boston Public Library’s collection – separate from the depository collection. They are available for public use and will continue to be.

Ladies and gentlemen of Boston, this is what your librarians look like. Posted by jessamyn at July 29, 2004 01:47 PM

Comments

that kicks ass, go Bernie!

Posted by: Della Street at July 29, 2004 02:35 PM

I actually thing that Obama was not the only one that talked about the issues of civil liberties and government intrusion. When I read your comments earlier today I thought I better read what Carter said again and not just spout off about this. Just now I reread what he said at http://www.dems2004.org/site/apps/nl/content3.asp?c=luI2LaPYG&b=125919&ct=158731 .

Carter talks very pointedly about human rights, trust and truth:

"Today, our dominant international challenge is to restore the greatness of America—based on telling the truth, a commitment to peace, and respect for civil liberties at home and basic human rights around the world. Truth is the foundation of our global leadership, but our credibility has been shattered and we are left increasingly isolated and vulnerable in a hostile world. Without truth—without trust—America cannot flourish. Trust is at the very heart of our democracy, the sacred covenant between the president and the people."

He emphasizes these issues several times.

I believe that the PATRIOT Act is all about lack of trust. I think it is the essence of the parts of the act that most affect our civil liberties. It is a lack of trust of all people whether U.S. citizens or those from around the world. Government intrusion into our lives is all about lack of trust.

The unwillingness to recognise the importance of truth is seems to be what has kept a number of current politions from admiting making errors.

He also comments several times on human rights which certainly is about civil liberties.

Yes, he did not use the exact words that we use in our daily conversations about these issues (or at least the way we speak about them in the library world) but the meaning is the same.

As an aside, Jessamyn, I have really enjoyed looking at your blog and have shared it with many others on library lists and with my family. And, you inspired me to start some blogs. Yes, I actually started 3 this week.

Thanks.

Posted by: Diedre at July 30, 2004 01:25 AM