No porn at library

The National Library and Information Service (NALIS) has categorically denied a claim that children had viewed pornography on a computer in the Diego Martin Public Library, as reported in a letter to the editor in a daily newspaper (not Newsday). In a statement yesterday NALIS said that it “categorically states that it strictly prohibits the viewing of pornographic material at its libraries. “NALIS, since the introduction of its internet services in 1998, has been extremely vigilant, and has taken a zero tolerance approach to patrons caught breaking the rules and regulations regarding use of the internet facilities.” NALIS said each library displayed its policy prohibiting pornography on its computers. Disclosing that at the National Library, NALIS used an internet server which daily filtered all websites, she added: “This service ensures that all sites containing pornographic material are blocked for use in the library.” This filter, she assured, was currently being installed at all NALIS libraries. She admitted that NALIS was unable to monitor the content of e-mails. She said an investigation into the alleged viewing of pornography at Diego Martin Public Library reported on June 16 had not substantiated the  complaint in the letter. “Checks revealed that the computer usage and internet history showed no record of this prohibited activity.” She invited the public to send their comments on the proper use of the library facilities to NALIS at 624-4466 or 624-1130.