We assume the head librarians role Recently updated the library computer systems

New resource for patrons – internet access Teenager caught viewing sexually explicit material Childrens protection act (CIPA) passed by congress

requires filtering software to be installed. This may violate the ALA however, there is

pressure from the community and government. If the library does not comply it will loose the e-rate

discount. ($25,000 last year). Cut budget to make up for subsides

Primary : The Head Librarian Can lose the e-rate discount

Secondary : Patrons Loss of freedom to censorship

Tertiary : Library Staff Concerned with the changes in the content and

violations of policy

Filters triggering false positives Loop holes If filters are not installed the library

looses $25000 discount

Filters are not perfect They may block websites that are

appropriate Installation of filters breaks the ALA code

Patrons with above average computing skills

may find ways around the blocks The blocks may provoke malicious

behavior Hacker mentality

If the filters are rejected the library will not receive the $25,000 discount. More resources will have to be used Staff is affected Quality of service may decrease

Technical Solutions

Discount: installing filters Submit requests for proposals to multiple

vendors Ensure the best filtering system is selected Vendor will install and maintain filtering

solution initially Vendor can fix any kinks and loopholes

initially Allows for a smooth transition

Implementing Filter

Filter obscene content

Happy Staff Happy Parents Happy Government

Rejecting Filter

No blocks on content Controversy Perhaps Integrity

Ethical Problems

Discrimination

ACM Code 1.4 Be fair and do not discriminate A tiered access system would discriminate

against some patrons, i.e. those under the age of 18

All patrons should be given equal access However, by filtering content, you would not

be discriminating against individuals but the content itself

Respect for Law

ACM Code 2.3 Respect existing laws in your professional work Pornography is illegal to view if the person

viewing it is under the age of 18 Child pornography is considered abject and

wholly illegal in many jurisdictions Installing filters would comply with these laws.

Human Dignity

ACM Code 3.2 Build systems that enhance quality of working life Pornography is widely considered

inappropriate and vulgar. One patron viewing explicit materials could

disturb others. Installing filters would enhance the quality of

working life for both staff member and patron alike.

Rights

What do we want? The allowance to view anything

What is legal? It is legal for adults over 18 to view most explicit

materials Some forms of pornography are outlawed

What is right? Its complicated

Current law stipulates the legality of minors viewing pornographic and obscene content: it’s not allowed Therefore an agreement can be entered into by both

parties which enumerates what is acceptable and what is not acceptable content for minors while still allowing of-age patrons unfettered access

Additionally the agreement can be formed in such a way as to settle any disputes over the actual rights the patrons have concerning the computing resources

If the patron violates that agreement, punitive damages can be meted out

By installing the filters, the library system can maintain its discount and satisfy the interests of the librarians and government

A network administrator can be hired to assist in maintain the filtering system Fix any loopholes Correct false positives Confirm its effectiveness

A logging system can be put into place to aide in verification of any violations in the contract Set up auto-generated accounts for more

granular tracking

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