Minnesota Library Association

Statement on Internet Access

Adopted October 1998

The Minnesota Library Association 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. Therefore, the Minnesota Library Association has endorsed the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights, Code of Ethics, Freedom to Read Statement, and its interpretations of the Library Bill of Rights.

As an extension of these intellectual freedom principles, the Minnesota Library Association endorses a position of full and free access to the Internet in libraries. 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 the library users from accessing materials they determine to be most suitable for themselves. Therefore, the Minnesota Library Association does not recommend the use of Internet filters in libraries and opposes attempts by federal and state governments to mandate their use.

The Minnesota Library Association respects the responsibility of all parents/legal guardians to guide their own children's use of the library, its 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. In addition, the Association encourages the management of this resource in ways that protect the privacy of Internet users.