1.       Electronic information and media resources should be provided for the interest, entertainment, information, and enlightenment of all the people of the community that the library serves.  Electronic materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or view of those contributing to their creation.

2.       Electronic databases are a vast source of information, representing all points of view.  Access to these databases should not be restricted because of content or viewpoint.  The library does not necessarily endorse the information and viewpoints found on any electronic database.

3.       Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas in whatever format.

4.       A person’s right to use a library and all its resources should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background or views.  Libraries and governing bodies should maintain that parents and only parents have the right and responsibility to restrict access of their children, and only their children, to electronic resources.  The library does not function as the parent.  E-mail accounts for minors require a parent or guardian’s signature.

5.       Electronic access carries the same rights and responsibilities as the MontanaLibraryRecords Confidentiality Act.

6.       Electronic access should not be used for illegal activity, program and database disruption, or infringement of another’s freedom of expression or right to privacy.

7.       The allocation of electronic resources is at the prerogative of the library and its governing body.  Electronic access may be denied because of illegal activity, program or database disruption and/or destruction, infringement of another’s freedom of expression or right to privacy.  Electronic access may also be denied if the account is not used within a specified time or because of library budgetary or collection management decisions. Librarypolicies and procedures should ensure due process for those denied access.

Reviewed 10/97

Revised 1/05

Reviewed 8/08

Revised 6/12