Can libraries block websites?

At least 27 states have Internet filtering laws that apply to publicly funded schools or libraries. The majority of these states simply require school boards/districts or public libraries to adopt Internet use policies to prevent minors from gaining access to sexually explicit, obscene or harmful materials.

Why do libraries block websites?

Blocking Internet sites is antithetical to library missions because it requires the library to limit information access. A role of librarians is to advise and assist users in selecting information resources.

Why filters won t protect children or adults?

Filters can give parents and guardians a false sense of security—prompting them to believe that children are protected when they are not. What’s more, filters cannot protect children from other dangers and concerns they might encounter, such as potential predators, gambling, or fraud.

Do libraries have computers for public use?

U.S. Public Libraries Provide Access to Computers, the Internet, and Technology Training. New data shows that 98.9 percent of all public libraries offer free public access to computers and the Internet—a growth of more than 400 percent since 1996, when just one in four libraries did.

Should public libraries filter Internet sites?

The negative effects of content filters on Internet access in public libraries and schools are demonstrable and documented. Consequently, consistent with previous resolutions, the American Library Association cannot recommend filtering.

What are library filters?

A web filter allows libraries to carefully control the types of content that can be accessed over their wired and wireless networks and places certain limits on the type of web content that can be viewed. …

Are web filters at school too restrictive?

Additionally, if school web filters are too restrictive, they can interfere with learning by creating too many restrictions to content that bars even educational content and necessary search results to complete student research. Some of the cons of internet censorship include: Limited access to useful educational sites.

How secure are library computers?

Public computers are not as safe as personal devices because you don’t know if the latest security protocols, like antivirus protections, have been installed. Ideally, those networks should use the latest security measures, including encryption, but you’ll have no way of knowing whether they do.

Does everyone have access to libraries?

The public can use the knowledge found within a library to guide decisions made during self-government. Instead of a king making decisions, Madison saw a wise, educated public guiding America. It has been said that the library is the poor man’s university.

Why schools and other institutions such as public libraries use Internet filters?

CIPA specifically requires public libraries and schools seeking e-rate discounts for internet connections to install technology protection measures, i.e., content filters, to block two categories of visual images that are unprotected by the First Amendment: obscene images and images of child pornography.

How could this ruling impact Internet use and Internet access in public libraries?

The Supreme Court today upheld a federal law that requires public libraries to install pornography filters on all computers providing Internet access, as a condition of continuing to receive federal subsidies and grants. The law, enacted in 2001, has been blocked by a lower court ruling and has never taken effect.