Internet Policy and Filtering Update

Instructor: Mary Minow, Lori Ayre

Internet Policy and Filtering Update

• Is it legal for the library to ask staff to monitor Internet stations?
• What are the best practices for reviewing and updating policy?
• Should you use parental consent forms? If so, what should they say?
• Should you require a library card for patrons to use your Internet connection? Is it legal to do so?
• What kind of signage or disclaimers should be given to your patrons?

Come hear answers to these questions and more from an attorney who is also a former librarian and library trustee. While the workshop does not substitute for legal advice for your local situation, it can help make your consultations with your library's attorney more productive.

Workshop Description: This workshop will provide a legal framework for libraries that are reviewing their Internet policies on public access. It will examine practices around the state and nationwide, focusing on public libraries. It will also offer an update on filtering software and discuss whether the law requires its use. Attendees will also get a copy of InFoPeople's "Internet Filtering Options Analysis."

Highlights:

• Update on federal and state laws governing Internet Access in Libraries
  • Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) – regulations and status
  • California bills on library Internet access policies
• Update on court cases concerning libraries and the Internet
  • Loudoun County Library case
  • Livermore Public Library case
• Managing your public's access to the Internet
  • Privacy issues concerning reservations and sign-up sheets
  • Parental consent forms and other mechanisms for structuring minors' access
  • Privacy screens and other physical strategies
  • The promise of technological solutions
• Filtering Software
  • Why filters can’t work
  • Filtering technology today
  • Features to look for
  • How to use the filtering guide
• Round Robin of library policies and how they are working out

Who Should Attend: Library policy makers and library staff that carry out Internet policies for public access.