Filters can, and do, screen out perfectly legal and useful information. The role of libraries is to provide access to information. Very few libraries have reported actual problems with either children or adults misusing the Internet. The American Library Association reports that there has been no outpouring of complaints from parents. The best way to protect children is for parents to supervise their children's Internet use and to teach them to make wise choices.
Librarians are glad to help.
The decision of whether or not to use a filter in your home is entirely related to your values, needs and family. Many filters are on the market, and are capable of vastly different things, from blocking chat and transmission of information to monitoring your hard drive and keeping history lists. Some commercial online services, such as America Online, and Internet Service Providers allow parents to limit their children's access to certain services. While child protection tools are worth exploring, they are not a panacea. The best way to assure that your children are having positive online experiences is to stay in touch with what they are doing.