CHLA-ABSC / MLA CODE OF ETHICS
Canadian Preamble

The Canadian Health Libraries Association and the Medical Library Association acknowledge the importance of a shared code of ethics to promote the values of health sciences librarianship throughout North America.

CHLA/ABSC is committed to providing and developing resources which promote excellence in health and healthcare and support continuous learning. In doing so, members call upon their own expertise and judgement to provide the best information available to their clients. Members exercise the highest level of professional commitment and uphold the following MLA code of ethics in their pursuit of excellence.

Code of Ethics for Health Sciences Librarianship

Goals and Principles for Ethical Conduct

The health sciences librarian believes that knowledge is the sine qua non of informed decisions in health care, education, and research and the health sciences librarian serves society, clients, and the institution by working to ensure that informed decisions can be made.

Society

The health sciences librarian promotes access to health information for all and creates and maintains conditions of freedom of inquiry, thought, and expression that facilitate informed health care decisions.

Clients

• The health sciences librarian works without prejudice to meet the client's information needs.
• The health sciences librarian respects the privacy of clients and protects the confidentiality of the client relationship.
• The health sciences librarian ensures that the best available information is provided to the client.

Institution

The health sciences librarian provides leadership and expertise in the design, development and ethical management of knowledge-based information systems that meet the information needs and obligations of the institution.

Profession

• The health sciences librarian advances and upholds the philosophy and ideals of the profession.
• The health sciences librarian advocates and advances the knowledge and standards of the profession.
• The health sciences librarian conducts all professional relationships with courtesy and respect.
• The health sciences librarian maintains high standards of professional integrity.

Self

The health sciences librarian assumes personal responsibility for developing and maintaining professional excellence.