Libraries filter out hardcore porn use

A CONTENT filter has been rolled out across all Geelong libraries to stop users accessing pornography and other offensive material.

There were 16 complaints of people viewing unsuitable websites in a library during 2017-18, with many of the cases reported by a parent who was there with their child.

The offending was carried out on both public PCs and on people’s own devices.

“The filter was introduced in response to some customers consistently accessing material contrary to the conditions of use,” library corporation’s business systems and innovation executive manager Geoff Adsett said in a report.

“Staff and customer feedback indicated the viewing of pornography in the library was having a detrimental effect on the enjoyment and amenity of the library to other users.”

To combat the behaviour, and to address a knock on the library’s reputation as a safe space, a web blocking trial began at the central Geelong library in April.

The pilot program was extended to all branches in June, after a review of the data indicated the issue was not limited to particular sites.

Mr Adsett presented the trial’s results to the library’s latest board meeting. Statistics show that almost 10,200 sites were filtered by the content blocker in July.

The largest percentage of blocked sites were seen at Geelong West, Torquay and Newcomb. However, the filtered sites made up just 0.05 per cent of the overall traffic seen across the library network.

Mr Adsett said there had been no public complaints about inappropriate web usage since the trial began. “Staff have reported they feel more comfortable working in the library environment.”

The software is now is use across the 15 branches.