Publication Date
2-1-2024
Abstract
Since 2020, conspiracy theories have crossed into mainstream media with dastardly effects. In attempting to prove conspiracy theories to be real, “researchers” try to back their claims with information. As major institutions within the information society, libraries and archives play a unique role in a world in which more and more people are interested in misinformation and disinformation. This article uses a review of selected literature to address three questions in relevance to public library systems and conspiracy theorists. The first is: what is the ethical responsibility of information managers in providing misinformation and disinformation in regard to intellectual freedom? Secondly, is it the responsibility of an information manager and their institute to train literacy skills to their community? Lastly, as “gate keepers of information,” how should managers handle these patrons who are often paranoid, hostile, and already have a predisposition to be suspicious of authority figures?