Online content regulation
ALIA survey of internet access in public libraries 2008
Thank you to all the public library staff who responded to our 2008 survey of internet access in public libraries. We truly appreciate your assistance in providing accurate and up-to-date information in this vital area of library services and freedom of access to information. We have had an excellent response across the nation and we are now looking forward to the task of analysis and writing the report.
If you require further information, please contact Jane Hardy, ALIA Assistant Director, Strategy & Advocacy on jane.hardy@alia.org.au or 02 6215 8235.
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ALIA supports the basic right of library and information services users to unhindered access to information regardless of format.
Australian library and information services provide extensive internet access services. Through these services, Australia's public libraries play a key role in addressing the need for equitable community access to online information and services.
For ALIA and Australia's library and information services, together with the support for freedom of information, comes the need to exercise due care in the provision of information.
ALIA has been active in the public debate on online content regulation since 1996. ALIA's policy position is set out in its statement on online content regulation.
ALIA's Online Content and Regulation Advisory Committee advises the Board of Directors on public policy and legislative developments relating to online content regulation of concern to members.
Filtering software
ALIA does not recommend the use of internet filtering technology in public libraries. Filtering has been shown to vary in its effectiveness, blocking some sites with useful and legal information, while not fully protecting children and others from illegal, objectionable or offensive material.
internet filtering software accuracy and performance, children's use of the internet and educational Guides for Families and Libraries.
Survey of internet access in public libraries
ALIA co-ordinated a survey in May 2007, the third to have been conducted by the Association since 2002. The survey focused on the IT environment in public libraries. The report's findings are based on the responses received from this survey.
2007 survey Report is available as well as case studies and media releases.
ALIA's 2005 survey is a comprehensive, national study of public library internet services covering 41 per cent of the public libraries in Australia. The survey shows that the great majority of libraries have internet use policies, community education programs and management systems in place to support their internet access services and that these services are highly valued, popular and heavily used. A summary and a full report are available.
A report of the earlier survey , conducted in 2002 is also available.
Cybersmart materials for public libraries
ALIA has worked with the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) to develop resources to support public library staff in implementing procedures for safe internet use in the library environment. All Australian public libraries have been sent a Cybersmart information pack, and additional copies of the guides and poster may be ordered from the ACMA website.
The resources include:
- Cybersmart guide for library staff
- cyber rules poster
- four web-based internet safety information videos staff
- Cybersmart guide for families: safe internet use in the library and at home.
Cyber-Safety Consultative Working Group
ALIA will be joining other associations and corporations on the Government's Cyber-Safety Consultative Working Group.
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