CURRENT EVENTS
CULTURAL COMMUNITY CENTER is our Library's new link between Marlborough School families and our city's rich cultural and artistic life. We will keep you informed weekly about numerous events under several headings, including FINE ARTS, FESTIVALS, FILM, LITERARY EVENTS, and PERFORMING ARTS.
ART
BOOK REVIEWS, LITERARY EVENTS
MUSEUMS, GALLERIES, GARDENS
PLAYS, FILMS, MUSIC
Suggestions and submissions, please contact parent_name at email@earthlink.net our library parent volunteer.
INTERNET : Questions & Answers
Why is the Internet important for children?
The Internet is changing how we live, learn, work and interact with one other. If today's children are to succeed as adults, they must learn information technology skills.
Any useful tools that parents should know about "social networking"?
Here are several links that you will find helpful:
BlogSafety is a forum, where parents, teens, educators, and experts discuss and learn about safe networking
Getnetwise is a public service that helps you make decisions about your use of the Internet
Netsmartz is an interactive, educational safety resource to teach kids and teens how to stay safe on the Internet
Wiredsafety offers solutions for anything ranging from cyberbullying to harassment and related problems on the web
There will be other tips on how to protect your children, so check this site regularly:-)
Some libraries have installed filters on computers in the library. What exactly is filtering? How does it work?
Filtering or blocking software restricts access to Internet content through a variety of means. It may scan a Web site's content based on keywords, phrases or strings of text. It may also restrict access based on the source of the information or through a ratings system assigned by a third party (based on sexual content, violence, nudity, etc.). According to a 1998 study by the National Commission on Library and Information Sciences and the ALA Office for Information Technology Policy, almost all libraries have policies that govern Internet use. About 15 percent of public libraries use filters on one or more of their computers.
How many libraries have experienced problems with children viewing inappropriate material on the Internet?
Few libraries report difficulties with young children viewing inappropriate material, including pornography, online. The vast majority of children and adults continue to use the library responsibly and appropriately.
How can parents ensure their children have a positive online experience?
First, make the time to learn about the Internet and how it works. Many libraries, schools and community groups offer classes and materials to teach parents what they need to know in order to guide their children. Second, set rules. There are many common sense tips that can help ensure children have a positive experience online, such as not using their real name online or never agreeing to meet with someone they meet online without a parent or guardian present. Three, teach children values and guidelines to use in selecting what they read and view at the library and anywhere else. Young children should never be left alone at the library, and parents should supervise older as well as younger children's Internet use. Introduce your child to the librarian and encourage him/her to ask for help when seeking information on the Internet. Excellent sites that are especially developed with the parent in mind include:
Privacy Rights -- a great site for information on children's online privacy
The Children's Partnership's Parent's Guide to the Information Superhighway
Compiled by Zorana Ercegovac
Updated September 2008