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FAQs on the Internet Access Policy Review - San José Public Library

Q: Why doesn’t the Library filter Internet access for its users?
A: The San José Public Library (SJPL) recognizes that the Internet is one of the Community’s most valuable resources. The City Council reaffirmed a policy of open access to library materials and services and specifically included the Internet in 1997.

Q: Did the public have any input into the Internet access policy? How can the public modify the policy?
A: In 1997, when the City Council reviewed this policy, it heard public comment, as did the City's Library Commission. Both council and commission agendas are posted in advance of meetings so that the public may view agenda items ahead of time. The public is always welcome to attend these meetings to comment on agenda items of interest. Alternatively, members of the public may contact the Mayor, City Council and/or Library Director to provide input, or to utilize the feedback link on our website.

Q. Doesn’t the library care about exposing children to pornography?
A. The safety of our users, including children, is a primary concern of the library. Responsibility for safe use of the SJPL is a cooperative effort among parents, staff and other library users. Young children should be accompanied by an adult in the Library. The Library staff is eager to help parents and children learn about using the Internet safely for educational purposes. Library staff intercedes when aware of illegal or inappropriate viewing.

Q: Have there been many cases of inappropriate Internet usage in the Library?
A: The safety and security of San José Public Library users is a top priority, and the Library makes every effort to balance access to information with safety. If library staff suspect that illegal activity of any kind is taking place in the library, they call the police. Library staff will intercede when inappropriate behavior is occurring. The Library has very few cases of inappropriate use compared to the over 2,000,000 annual Internet sessions.

Q: How has the Library dealt with those cases?
A: The safety and security of SJPL users is a top priority. Staff are trained to address inappropriate or illegal situations. They provide privacy screens to discourage other customers from viewing users’ screens. The libraries provide computers in the children’s and/or teen areas that can only be used by children and teens.

Q: Is there any new technology on the horizon which will make the Library safer for children?
A: The library is a safe place. Responsibility for the safe use of the library is a cooperative effort among users, staff and parents. As of now, there is no filter specifically designed for public library use. Regardless of what technology may offer in the future, this cooperative effort will continue to be the key element.

Q: Will the Library enforce more stringent filtering if approved by the City Council?
A: Yes, the Library follows all applicable City Council policies.

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