Privacy and Public Access Netscape PCs in the Library

[Donna Schumann]

Our library does not restrict access to sites on the Internet in any way.
We have, however, gotten some complaints from patrons who walked past our
public access Netscape PCs and were offended by the images being
displayed. The situations have involved adolescent boys looking at
pictures of naked women. 

There is concern about children and other innocent bystanders walking past
the Netscape PCs and being exposed to pornography. A few patrons want us
to restrict all access to objectionable sites, both to protect children
and because they don't want their tax-dollars going to providing access to
pornography. Today one of our branches was picketed by some people who
want us to either restrict or remove internet access. 
 
We are committed to providing unrestricted access to the Internet. We
have, however, tried to provide some privacy to Netscape users by
positioning our Netscape PCs so that the PC monitor is not easily seen by
anyone other than the person using the PC. Unfortunately, in some of our
branches, the size and floor plan make this impossible. We are considering
buying desks which place the monitor below the work surface--the patrons
would have to look down through non-glare glass to see the images. 

How have other public libraries dealt with this issue? 

TIA, Donna

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Donna Schumann
Timberland Regional Library            Voice:  360-943-5001
schumann at timberland.lib.wa.us          FAX:    360-586-6838