AALL My Communities Code of Conduct Policy
Approved by the AALL Executive Board, November 2025, Tab 4
Purpose
The American Association of Law Libraries (AALL) is committed to fostering an open, respectful, and inclusive professional community. This Code of Conduct sets expectations for participation in all AALL-managed platforms, such as online communities.
Our goal is to create an environment that promotes collaboration, professional growth, and the free exchange of ideas while ensuring all members feel safe, respected, and valued. This AALL My Communities Code of Conduct complements the AALL Meetings & Events Code of Conduct, the AALL Harassment and Bullying Free Environment Policy, and the AALL Antitrust Compliance Policy.
Core Principles
Treat all participants with professionalism, courtesy, and respect. Debate ideas vigorously, but do not attack individuals. Impact matters more than intent. Help build a community of trust, inclusivity, and constructive dialogue.
Prohibited Conduct
Harassment and Discrimination
Harassment in any form is prohibited, including but not limited to conduct based on race, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, religion, socioeconomic status, or appearance. This includes stalking, intimidation, unwelcome attention, sexual or violent content, and sustained disruption as defined in the AALL Harassment and Bullying Free Environment Policy.
Commercial and Political Activity
Commercial advertisements, solicitations, political campaigning, and fundraising are prohibited. Any AALL fundraising campaigns must be approved by the Executive Director or Board before posting. Antitrust laws apply—do not post pricing, salary, market allocation, boycotts, or other trade-sensitive information.
Intellectual Property and Privacy
Please do not request or share copyrighted materials. Share only content you own or have permission to use and provide attribution where appropriate. Respect copyright and trademark protections. Do not share private or personally identifying information without consent. Do not impersonate others. By posting, you grant AALL and users a limited license to display, copy, and distribute material on AALL platforms. Please refer to the AALL Antitrust Compliance Policy for more details.
Technology Misuse
Do not upload viruses, malware, or malicious code. Do not use automated tools (bots, scrapers, or data mining) to collect information from AALL platforms.
Accessibility and Inclusion
Members should make reasonable efforts to ensure communications are accessible: use alt text for images, captions for videos, when possible, high-contrast visuals, and inclusive language. Respect members’ pronouns and preferred names.
Etiquette / Participation
Use clear subject lines and include your name and affiliation. Direct short replies (e.g., "thank you") to individuals, not entire lists. Use official channels or web interfaces for administrative requests. Avoid spamming multiple lists with the same content. Keep contributions constructive and relevant.
Reporting and Enforcement
If you witness or experience conduct that violates this Code, use the "Mark as Inappropriate" function where available or email support@aall.org. Anonymous reports are permitted, though they may limit follow-up. Reports will be reviewed promptly and confidentially.
Consequences may include removal of content, warnings, temporary suspension, or permanent revocation of membership privileges. Appeals may be submitted to the AALL Executive Board within 60 days of notification.
Disclaimer
AALL does not actively monitor all posts and is not responsible for the opinions shared by participants. However, AALL reserves the right to remove content or take action regarding conduct that violates this Code or applicable law. Legal disclaimers and antitrust cautions remain in effect.