Director's Corner: Notice of Public Hearing

Contributed by John Owen, Director

The Maryland State Library Agency's Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (LBPD) will hold a public hearing on Monday, August 23 at 4:00 PM to review the Internet Filtering Policy for the library.  LBPD provides computer and Internet access for eligible patrons at the library facility located at 415 Park Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21201.

The hearing will be conducted via teleconference. Please call 319-527-4994 to join the hearing.  

The policy is available for review:

1) in full text after the signature block in this post.

3) on the website at marylandlibraries.org

Thank you.

Internet Filtering Policy for LBPD

The Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled utilizes third-party filtering software on all Library workstations and devices using the Library’s Wi-Fi network. The Library receives federal funding in support of public Internet access. Federal law requires libraries receiving such funding to install filters (software that blocks access
to Internet material containing visual depictions that are obscene, contain child pornography or are harmful to minors) on its Internet computers. Maryland law 23-506.1 requires that a library adopt and implement policies and procedures to prevent minors from access to obscene materials or child pornography. The law requires that a filter protects against access to material that is:

● Obscene
● Child Pornography
● Harmful to Minors 

Internet sites that pose a threat to the library’s networks or computers are also
blocked, including:
● Malware
● Malicious Software and Actions
● Phishing
● Spyware

The policy of the Library for the Blind and Print Disabled is to provide access to materials available through the Internet while providing reasonable measures to protect minors from exposure to material that may be deemed "obscene" and to protect children from online forums where personal information may be transmitted. Further, the policy of the library is to filter any software that may compromise the security of the network. The Library uses third-party filtering software and firewall protection to accomplish these goals. This policy and the filtering tools are reviewed annually. 

There may be circumstances where a customer is unable to access legitimate resources. At the discretion of the person in charge, filters may be limited (for minors) or disabled (for adults with proper identification). Any concerns or questions about this policy should be directed to the Library Director.