Clearinghouse of Professional Information

Public Internet Access

This section provides links to a variety of levels of information that public libraries require when dealing with issues around public Internet access, as well as maintaining websites. You may also want to consult our Technology Planning Resources page
 

Topics include

General Resources | CensorshipEvaluating Web Sites | Federal Initiatives | Filtering | Internet Acceptable Use Policies | IssuesNetworking with other professionals | Public Access Control  | Usage studies | Web Site Design | Web Standards | Wireless Access (Libraries with)

indicates an item written by SOLS staff

indicates an item written by OLS-North staff

Clicking on certain topics will open a new window, if the link is to a topic included in an other Clearinghouse page

General Resources

Evaluating Web Sites 
Internet Acceptable Use Policies 
  • Acceptable Use Policies for Internet Use. What is an Acceptable Use Policy? (Media Awareness Network) 
  • Children and the Internet: Policies That Work (ALA. Association for Library Service to Children) The links were selected to provide you with a chance to view different styles and approaches to writing public library Internet access policies. Some of the policies listed link to state and federal regulations that support the documents, others provide information on what happens if a customer behaves inappropriately, and others are simple outlines of appropriate use. All were updated and revised within the past three years.
Ontario Public Libraries AUP (Acceptable Use Policies) 
Issues
Censorship/ Intellectual Freedom:
Filtering:
  • Filtering Facts A website and blog dedicated to all things related to filtering software, including news, technology, Internet safety, legal developments, public policy issues, and the companies that manufacture filtering software. Filtering Facts is designed to serve as both a reference site for those interested in filtering software, as well as a blog focused on breaking news related to filtering software.
  • GetNetWise (Internet Education Foundation)  A resource for families and caregivers to help kids have safe, educational, and entertaining online experiences.
  • Internet Filter Software Review 2009  A comprehensive report of the TOP 10 Internet Filters available
  • Peacefire:  (anti-filtering proponent site). Blocking software reports.
  • Signage for Public and school designated Computers in public/School libraries. (New brunswick Public Library Service)
Public Access Control  (not recommendations - examples only)

  • CybraryN  Public Access Security and Control   
  • Pharos: Uniprint Software that monitors, measures controls, costs and optionally charges for all IT networked resources 
Usage Studies
Wireless Access

See also our Technology Planning Resources page

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