The Internet dilemma Back to Table of Contents
The Internet is about open access to a worldwide network of information and ideas. Libraries choose to have Internet stations for public use in order to provide the greatest range of resources for their patrons and to ensure that everyone in the community has equal access to online information. This professional commitment to uncontrolled information along with Internet use in a public space has forced libraries to adopt thoughtful and clear Internet policies that meet several legal tests.
Policy requirements from the state of Utah
If the library wishes to receive state funds, it must have an Internet policy regarding use of the Internet by minors and an Internet filter on all computers available to the public. This filter must be set up to block images of child pornography and obscenity to all users, and items harmful to minors to users under 18. Procedures for policy enforcement must be specified.
Policy requirements from the federal government
The Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) requires libraries and schools to install filters on their Internet computers to retain federal funding and discounts for computers and computer access. CIPA directly affects eligibility for E-Rate telecommunications discounts and LSTA technology grants.
Principles at risk: Intellectual Freedom and Freedom from Censorship
Intellectual Freedom is a core value of the library profession. From the library perspective, it is the right of every individual to both seek and receive information from all points of view without restriction. It provides for free access to all expressions of ideas through which any and all sides of a question, cause or movement may be explored. All aspects of library service, everything from the selection of materials for the library, public use of meeting rooms, Internet usage and patron library records are affected by the principles of Intellectual Freedom.
Censorship is any change in the access status of material, based on the content of the work and made by a governing authority or its representatives. The library profession generally opposes censorship preferring instead to support an individual's right to freely choose reading and information sources.
Resources
Utah Code Annotated:
9-7-215 Internet and online access policy...
9-7-216 Process and content standards
Intellectual Freedom Issues - ALA