These regulations are designed to support, as far as possible, the principle of open access to the Libraries' resources. Accordingly, the students, staff and faculty of the University of Western Ontario and its affiliates are considered the primary users of the Libraries and privileges accorded for the use of materials apply to all members of these groups. The privileges of others may be restricted as necessary to ensure that the needs of the students, staff and the faculty of UWO and its affiliates are adequately met. All persons in Canada have the fundamental right, as embodied in the nation's Bill of Rights and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, to have access to all expresssions of knowledge, creativity and intellectual activity, and to express their thoughts publicly. This right to intellectual freedom, under the law, is essential to the health and development of Canadian society.
Libraries have a basic responsibility for the development and maintenance of intellectual freedom.
It is the responsibility of libraries to guarantee and facilitate access to all expressions of knowledge and intellectual activity, including those which some elements of society may consider to be unconventional, unpopular or unacceptable. To this end, libraries shall acquire and make available the widest variety of materials. Libraries should resist all efforts to limit the exercise of these responsibilities while recognizing the right of criticism by individuals and groups. All people employed by the University of Western Ontario and its affiliated institutions. All people who enjoy an ongoing affiliation with the University through research, instructional, professional or administrative activities.