we assume the head librarians role recently updated the library computer systems new resource for...
TRANSCRIPT
We assume the head librarians role Recently updated the library computer systems
New resource for patrons – internet access Teenager caught viewing sexually explicit material Childrens protection act (CIPA) passed by congress
requires filtering software to be installed. This may violate the ALA however, there is
pressure from the community and government. If the library does not comply it will loose the e-rate
discount. ($25,000 last year). Cut budget to make up for subsides
Primary : The Head Librarian Can lose the e-rate discount
Secondary : Patrons Loss of freedom to censorship
Tertiary : Library Staff Concerned with the changes in the content and
violations of policy
Filters triggering false positives Loop holes If filters are not installed the library
looses $25000 discount
Filters are not perfect They may block websites that are
appropriate Installation of filters breaks the ALA code
Patrons with above average computing skills
may find ways around the blocks The blocks may provoke malicious
behavior Hacker mentality
If the filters are rejected the library will not receive the $25,000 discount. More resources will have to be used Staff is affected Quality of service may decrease
Technical Solutions
Discount: installing filters Submit requests for proposals to multiple
vendors Ensure the best filtering system is selected Vendor will install and maintain filtering
solution initially Vendor can fix any kinks and loopholes
initially Allows for a smooth transition
Implementing Filter
Filter obscene content
Happy Staff Happy Parents Happy Government
Rejecting Filter
No blocks on content Controversy Perhaps Integrity
Ethical Problems
Discrimination
ACM Code 1.4 Be fair and do not discriminate A tiered access system would discriminate
against some patrons, i.e. those under the age of 18
All patrons should be given equal access However, by filtering content, you would not
be discriminating against individuals but the content itself
Respect for Law
ACM Code 2.3 Respect existing laws in your professional work Pornography is illegal to view if the person
viewing it is under the age of 18 Child pornography is considered abject and
wholly illegal in many jurisdictions Installing filters would comply with these laws.
Human Dignity
ACM Code 3.2 Build systems that enhance quality of working life Pornography is widely considered
inappropriate and vulgar. One patron viewing explicit materials could
disturb others. Installing filters would enhance the quality of
working life for both staff member and patron alike.
Rights
What do we want? The allowance to view anything
What is legal? It is legal for adults over 18 to view most explicit
materials Some forms of pornography are outlawed
What is right? Its complicated
Current law stipulates the legality of minors viewing pornographic and obscene content: it’s not allowed Therefore an agreement can be entered into by both
parties which enumerates what is acceptable and what is not acceptable content for minors while still allowing of-age patrons unfettered access
Additionally the agreement can be formed in such a way as to settle any disputes over the actual rights the patrons have concerning the computing resources
If the patron violates that agreement, punitive damages can be meted out
By installing the filters, the library system can maintain its discount and satisfy the interests of the librarians and government
A network administrator can be hired to assist in maintain the filtering system Fix any loopholes Correct false positives Confirm its effectiveness
A logging system can be put into place to aide in verification of any violations in the contract Set up auto-generated accounts for more
granular tracking
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