A hot topic for libraries are how to manage access and use of computers and the internet by both patrons and staff. Questions like: Do we set time limits for computer use and, if so, how do we find a time that meets the needs of most patrons? Do we block certain sites? Do we disallow certain activity? Do we allow (or even encourage) staff to participate in social networking at work? How do we keep abreast of what patrons needs are so that our policies can adapt to them?

We’ll be putting focus on these questions next month, as we spotlight Computer & Internet Policies. For instance, we’ll have a webinar on August 26 that features staff from two library systems who will share their findings on the trends in computer- and internet-related issues and provide examples of different approaches to policies that libraries have developed. We invite you to share your own experiences or policy examples, so that others may learn from you.

Meanwhile, member Patrick McDonald has a question for you: He is looking for policies that address library staff performing professional duties via a personal, social networking profile. If you have some information for him, please reply to his post to the Social Networking & Web Tools discussion board.