The cost of technology, though declining, has become a stumbling block for lower-income residents, who are denied the use of computers for homework, research and communication. Libraries fill this gap and give such people the best chance at joining the Information Age. Unfortunately, access to the Internet also means access to material considered by some to be indecent and profane. As a result, small and vocal groups have been able to pressure libraries into dropping Internet access altogether rather than face a legal battle over keeping access a part of the library's services. Typically, the groups assert that libraries should install filtering software to prevent patrons from accessing objectionable Web sites.
Libraries resist, claiming that such measures stifle free speech.
In February, voters in conservative Holland, Mich., voted 4,379 to 3,626 against the installation of filters on computers at the city's public library. The library's governing board had threatened to close the institution if controls were put on public access to information. The Hudsonville, Mich., public library was forced to suspend Internet access after the state chapter of the American Family Association circulated a petition and accused the library of allowing access to pornographic sites. The city took action to suspend Internet use largely out of fear of costly litigation. Under recent state legislation, at least one terminal in every library has to remain unrestricted for use.