Library Lawsuit

[James Cayz]

On Mon, 1 Jun 1998, Filtering Facts wrote:
>Filters are much more likely to fail in that they let in things they are
>supposed to be blocking.  I've yet to see a filter I couldn't beat without
>too much trouble.  But what software is 100% effective?  After all, we're
>not talking about airbags and parachutes, it's an Internet application, for
>Pete's sake.

Everyone,

As has been recently been pointed out, its NOT just an Internet
application (for which a failure is a minor problem), but a something upon
which LAWSUITS can definitely impact.  And like it or not, libraries in
some states can't afford legal representation against these lawsuits, but
they are wise enough to know this before they jump into the Internet.

So, as a sad note, perhaps overlooked by many on both sides of the issue,
is simply this:  If this problem continues to fester and grow, with
lawsuits & counterlawsuits going on, libraries will solve the problem in
the easiest and faster way possible: 

	Turn It Off.  Just don't provide it at all.  Everyone Loses.

Don't think it won't happen, I'm sure it has already. 
I hope it makes everyone happy....


Somewhat related SideBar:
Its funny, all this fuss about this is so "out of place" when you compare
it to other things in society.  We don't often have outside groups march
into towns protesting new speed zones or what kind of curiculum is taught
in the local schools.  Local people impacted by local laws, be them right
or wrong.  However, talk about the Internet in the library, still
impacting local citizens, and we have everyone from Wash DC on both sides
of the issue stand up and ready to file lawsuits "on behalf of" the
citizens.  You have to wonder what the groups (on both sides of the issue)
have to prove by doing this... 

*sigh*

James Cayz

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