ALA Supports GetNetWise Initiative
to Help Families Keep Kids Safe Online
Nearly three dozen of the world's leading Internet companies and associations have launched GetNetWise, an online guide to making Web surfing safer for children. The American Library Association is among the advisors to the project, along with other nonprofits such as the Center for Democracy and Technology, the People for the American Way Foundation, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
Rick White, former U.S. Representative from Washington State and co-founder of the Congressional Internet Caucus, made the announcement at a press conference in Washington, joined by executives from organizing partners, including America Online, AT&T, Bell Atlantic, Microsoft, and MCI WorldCom. Supporting companies include filtering software manufacturers such as Net Nanny and Surfwatch.
"As information professionals, librarians are dedicated to ensuring that all children have a positive online experience," said ALA Vice-president/President-elect Nancy Kranich, noting that the Association is especially proud that its "Great Sites" Web guide is included as a resource in GetNetWise.
