Greensboro PL To Highlight Filtered Search for Kids

Staff -- Library Journal, 1/10/2000

In response to community concern about the Internet, the Greensboro Public Library, NC will not install software filters but instead highlight the use of filtered search engines, which will be the default search engines in the Main Library children's room. "We're saying it's your freedom to make these choices," Director Sandy Neerman told LJDigital. "If you want to filter your search, we'll let you, we'll show you how to use the filtered search engines." Children will be allowed to use other terminals and will not be required to use the filtered search engines. Neerman said the local newspaper, the News & Record, has pushed for the library to require parental consent for Internet use. However, she and the library board have resisted, because the library attracts many children who lack parental involvement and thus cannot get that consent. The library has developed its policies with the help of a community advisory group, and Neerman said the ultimate solution is education. "It's not that we've had any incidents, it's just that parents have been sort of surprised that a child can walk in and have access to most anything in the world."