Access to public information is a foundational element of democratic governance, enabling transparency, accountability, and informed civic participation. Yet, in many jurisdictions this right seems to be increasingly challenged by legal loopholes, bureaucratic resistance, and political agendas. This presentation aims to explore how legal frameworks, administrative practices, and political climates can either facilitate or hinder public access to government-held information. This will be shown examining instances where transparency has been undermined, resulting in affecting disproportionately vulnerable communities.

A comparative lens will highlight best practices from states where support has strengthened access to information. Additionally, the program will spotlight grassroots and institutional advocacy efforts that challenge restrictive policies and promote transparency, emphasizing strategies for resistance and coalition-building.

This program will be led by a panel of speakers and will combine a structured presentation with interactive elements designed to foster engagement and dialogue. Real-world case studies from different jurisdictions will highlight legal and political barriers to access, while audience polling will gauge participants’ experiences within their own institutions. Attendees will also break into small groups to brainstorm advocacy strategies and share best practices.

This program is sponsored by the Legal Information Services to the Public SIS (LISP-SIS).

TARGET AUDIENCE:

This program is designed for law librarians working in a variety of settings who engage with or are interested in advocacy efforts, public records, and information policy. The presentation will be especially relevant to those interested in the intersection of law, civic engagement, and social justice, and who seek to strengthen their role as defenders of the public’s right to know.

TAKEAWAYS:

1. Participants will identify and analyze legal and political barriers to public access to government information.
2. Participants will evaluate the impact of restricted access to information on civic engagement and vulnerable communities. 
3. Participants will explore advocacy strategies and best practices that promote transparency and accountability in government institutions.

SPEAKERS:

• Rachel Jorgensen, Texas Tech University
• Sarah Ryan, MLS, JD, PhD, Esq, University of North Texas

COORDINATOR:

• Mariangeli Lugo-Zayas, JD, MBA, MSIS, Universidad de Puerto Rico, Recinto de Rio Piedras

AALL BODY OF KNOWLEDGE DOMAINS: Professionalism + Leadership At Every Level, Marketing + Outreach

CANCELLATION AND OTHER POLICIES:

No refunds will be given for any purchased AALL conference recording. This applies to non-AALL members only as the recordings are free for AALL members.

The opinions shared during this program represent the views of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect those of the American Association of Law Libraries (AALL). Recording, capturing, or using AI tools to duplicate, transcribe, or otherwise reproduce an AALL program in any form is strictly prohibited without prior written consent from AALL. This includes, but is not limited to audio, video, or any other content shared. By accessing an AALL recording, you agree to adhere to this policy.