Filters are known to block a wide range of sites, including the FBI, eBay, Planned Parenthood, The Bible and others with information many people find helpful for school, work, health and other needs. The ALA also is concerned that the use of filters may give parents a false sense their children are protected when this is not the case. The ALA strongly believes that educating children to use the Internet wisely is their best protection, now and in the future. The ALA strongly encourages local libraries to adopt and implement Internet use policies in the same way they develop other policies based on the needs of their communities. Almost all have or are developing such policies.
Some policies require a guardian's signature to use the Internet.
Some require parents to be present when children use the Internet. Some set time limits. Some revoke Internet privileges for viewing materials that are offensive to others. Some link computers in children's rooms only to pre-selected search engines or sites recommended for children. Some use filters.