New Research Article Reports on the Use of Internet Filters in Britain’s Public Libraries

The following peer-reviewed article appears in the latest issue of Library and Information Research (Vol 38, No 117; 2014) published by the UK group CILIP (Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals).

Title

You Don’t Come To The Library To Look At Porn And Stuff Like That: Filtering Software In Public Libraries

Authors

Louise Cooke
Loughborough University
Rachel Spacey
Loughborough University
Claire Creaser
Loughborough University
Adrienne Muir
Loughborough University

Source

Library and Information Research 
Vol 38, No 117 (2014)

Abstract

Should public libraries filter the content of internet services offered to their users?
We discuss this question in the light of findings from the AHRC-funded MAIPLE project, which has been investigating measures taken by UK Public Library Services to manage public internet provision in their libraries. Initial findings  suggest that filtering software is extensively used, and that librarians and users alike are mostly content with this solution. It could be argued that this position is at odds with our professional and ethical duties towards clients to provide uninhibited access to information and ideas.
However, we recognise the social norms and realities in which services must operate and go on to discuss clear and transparent policies and procedures that public libraries might adopt to mitigate the potential for misuse of their internet facilities.

Direct to Full Text Article (15 pages; PDF)

Filed under: Libraries, News, Patrons and Users, Public Libraries, Reports