Library Technology

For information about different types of filtering, specific solutions, and more, check out our Methods of Filtering page.

The Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) requires the use of technology protection measures (filters) that protect against access to visual depictions that are obscene or harmful to minors. CIPA applies if your library receives E-Rate funds.

Do we have to filter for adults?

Libraries receiving E-Rate funding and complying with CIPA must have filters in place for all computers owned by the library, including staff computers. Alaska libraries that do not receive E-Rate funding need not filter, though it would be wise to have an internet use policy.   

Wait - Even staff computers? 

If your library is receiving federal funding for internet support, the filtering requirement applies to all library owned computers, including the staff computers. 

What is my library required to filter?

The filter must protect against access to visual depictions that are obscene, child pornography, or harmful to minors. 

How much content should my filter block?

What you do or do not filter should reflect your community values and input received during the public forum/meeting that you are required to have at least once. It is not necessary to block so much that it inhibits the ability of library patrons to meet their ordinary information needs. Consider unintended consequences when applying your filter settings. For example, blocking all sports would block access to information about the Iditarod. 

When may we disable a filter?

For libraries receiving E-Rate funding and complying with CIPA, filters may only be disabled for adults for "bona fide research or other lawful purposes." 

Do we have to filter our Wi-Fi when patrons bring their own devices?

CIPA applies only to library-owned computers. However, Wi-Fi access should be addressed in the library's Internet Use Policy.

I don't have an internet use policy - what do they look like?

Check out the samples in the sidebar of different kinds of internet use policies in Alaska and around the country - they can help if you need inspiration.  We've also provided the link to a guide from ALA that has general advice and resources to help write library policies.  Feel free to contact us if you have questions or need more help!

How do I test if my filter is working?

Here are a few test websites without actual objectionable content that you can use to test if your content filter is functioning:

• http://www.exampleadultsite.com/
• http://urlfiltering.paloaltonetworks.com/test-adult

However, since these are test websites, they might not be blocked by all content filters. If possible, you may also want to try visiting a website with actual adult content to confirm that your content filter blocks it.

Hat tip to Dylan Baker and other staff at the Idaho Commission for Libraries for these FAQs, which have been adapted to Alaska.

Library Technology Consultant & OWL Program Manager 

In Alaska

Outside Alaska