We are seeking proposals for chapters in a peer-reviewed book titled “New Frontiers on Freedom of Expression: Global Perspectives on Censorship”. This book will provide a comprehensive examination of censorship within the library environment, serving as a foundational guide to understanding the nature of censorship, exploring impactful case studies, and equipping readers with advocacy tools to promote intellectual freedom and freedom of expression. The book will be published as part of the IFLA/De Gruyter Publication Series.

Censorship poses a significant threat to the free flow of ideas and knowledge, which are vital for the growth and development of individuals and societies. This book aligns with Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, emphasizing the right to freedom of opinion and expression. By exploring the complex relationship between libraries and censorship, this book will provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing libraries in upholding intellectual freedom.

This book is intended for librarians, educators, policymakers, and advocates who are committed to promoting intellectual freedom and the free exchange of ideas. It will be useful for academic, school, and public librarians, as well as library associations worldwide that advocate for intellectual freedom. The content will serve as a tool for teaching, research, and advocacy.

Topics

We invite chapters that address, but are not limited to, the following topics:

  • Historical Context of Censorship in Libraries
  • Freedom of Access to Information and Freedom of Expression
  • Librarians and Self-Censorship
  • Emerging Technologies and Censorship
  • Ethical dilemmas navigating censorship
  • Advocacy and Intellectual Freedom
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI), Digital Platforms, and the Rise of Global Authoritarianism
  • Case Studies from Around the World
  • Creative Approaches and Innovative Ideas to Respond to Censorship
  • Building Strategies for Advocacy

Submissions

Please submit an abstract no longer than 200 words, double spaced, written in UK English. Include the title of the proposed submission, name(s) of the author(s), institutional affiliation, contact information with mailing address and email address, and a short biography of the main author. Final chapters should be 5,000 – 8,000 words long using Chicago style. Detailed guidelines for chapters will be provided to authors whose chapters are accepted. The editorial team will work with authors through the process for feedback and revisions to chapters. A peer review process will be used.

Important Dates

  • Deadline for submission of proposals: February 1, 2025
  • Authors notified by: March 15, 2025
  • Draft chapters due to editors: May 15, 2025
  • Peer Review process initiated.
    • If approved, the chapters are returned to authors with guidance for further improvements by September 1, 2025.
    • If not approved, authors are notified by September 1, 2025.
  • Completed chapters returned to editors: November 1, 2025
  • Final Copy Editing: November 1, 2025, to January 15, 2026
  • Review by Series Editor January 15, 2026, to April 1, 2026
  • Book submitted to publisher April 1, 2026
  • Book released June 2026

Editors

  • Jonathan Hernández, IIBI-UNAM, Mexico. IFLA FAIFE
  • Joseph Hafner, York University, Canada, IFLA LGBTQ+ SIG, METATEC Review Group
  • Diane Koen,  McGill University, Canada, IFLA North American Regional Committee

How to Submit: Submit your proposal to: [email protected]

Further information

Please contact any of the editors by using our Google Group email: [email protected]

Or individually at:

  • Jonathan Hernández, Library Professor, Library and Information Research Institute, UNAM, [email protected] ; Chair, IFLA FAIFE
  • Joseph Hafner, Dean of Libraries, York University, Canada, [email protected] ; Member, IFLA LGBTQ+ SIG, IFLA Book Series Editor & Chair, METATEC Review Group
  • Diane Koen, Director Library Planning and Resources (retired), McGill University, [email protected] ; Chair, IFLA North American Regional Committee