The Maine Association of School Libraries believes that a democracy can only succeed if its citizens have access to the information necessary to form opinions and make decisions on issues affecting their lives. It supports the principle of open access to information and ideas, regardless of the medium in which they exist. In addition, libraries provide opportunities to access the world of information to those who would not otherwise have such access.

With these principles in mind, the Maine Association of School Libraries endorses a position of full and free access to the Internet in the educational setting. This position is strengthened by the Supreme Court ruling which states that communications on the Internet receive the same level of constitutional protection as books, magazines, and newspapers.

The Association recognizes the issues and concerns generated from providing full access to the Internet. The debate regarding the use of filtering devices in response to these concerns is an important one. However, filtering devices block access to constitutionally protected speech and prevent information seekers from accessing materials they determine to be most suitable for themselves. Therefore, the Maine Association of School Libraries does not recommend the use of Internet filters in the educational setting and opposes attempts by federal and state governments to mandate their use.

The Maine Association of School Libraries respects the responsibility of all parents/legal guardians to guide their own children's use of educational resources and services. The Association recommends that libraries teach responsible and effective use of the Internet through handouts, online guides, training sessions, and Web pages highlighting library recommended sources, and collaborate with classroom leaders in teaching these strategies to the entire educational community. In addition, the Association encourages the management of this resource in ways that protect the privacy of Internet users.

MASL is grateful to the Minnesota Library Association for wording in this document.

Please direct any questions you have to:

Gretchen Asam, Librarian
Presque Isle High School
16 Fort Street
Presque Isle, Maine 04769
asamg@mail.sad1.k12.me.us