Instituted in 2002, the Intellectual Freedom Award was created:
To recognize an SDLA member or South Dakota resident or group that has exhibited strong support for Intellectual Freedom in the State of SD and has made significant contributions to the enhancement of First Amendment rights.

The recipient will:

• Be active in supporting Intellectual Freedom in their library, community, or statewide
• Be active in informing SDLA and the State Library of Intellectual Freedom issues
• Be an advocate in keeping challenged materials on library shelves
• Be helpful and supportive to those facing challenges of materials
• Demonstrate involvement in Intellectual Freedom issues