•  
  •  
 

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?

Share

COinS
 
 

To view the content in your browser, please download Adobe Reader or, alternately,
you may Download the file to your hard drive.

NOTE: The latest versions of Adobe Reader do not support viewing PDF files within Firefox on Mac OS and if you are using a modern (Intel) Mac, there is no official plugin for viewing PDF files within the browser window.