Net Neutrality Affecting Libraries

Opposition of Net Neutrality With as many parties that are in favor of net neutrality, there are an equal number who are against it. While net neutrality regulations allow for open, unrestricted access to the internet, it could also be said that restriction is an option that needs to be allowed to Internet service providers in order for them to recoup initial investments costs if they deem it necessary. It’s also a valid point that because there has been limited government oversight since the mid 1990s, that the internet has become what it is today because of the private sector and the investment and advancements the made to the industry. Many are concerned that with government oversight at this point in the game, can limit the forward progress
Many libraries have within their mission statement a write-up, among other things, about being able to provide access to information for their patrons (Bangert, 2006). While fifty years ago information meant access to books, newspaper, magazines, and periodicals. In today’s society that also means access to the internet. Libraries are a central hub of information and resources to their communities. But what happens when the accessibility of one of those resources become compromised?
How These Changes Are Affecting Libraries One way in net neutrality is affecting libraries is in the ability to provide unbiased, unrestricted access to resources on the Internet. Sara White of the Pratt Institute School of Library and Information Science stated “This issue is one that librarians should take notice of, as it potentially affects abilities of users to exercise intellectual freedoms and could impact the library’s ability to provide services to its users.” (White, 2014). One of the core missions of the library is to provide access to information. However, if and/or when that ability is affected, libraries are at the forefront to champion for net neutrality
While the Internet is a global presence, however, there is currently no official global governance in place to regulate the Internet. One way to embrace net neutrality regulations, but also respect the investment of the private sector, is creating a legislative outcome that could potentially be beneficial to both parties. The purpose of net neutrality is not to squash innovation, but to eliminate content discrimination by Internet service providers. One potential way to appease both sides, is to allow the private sector to remain an invested member in shaping the forward progress of the internet. This will allow the private sector to determine which areas of progress to develop and enhance. They could determine to invest heavily in fiber optics or even expanding to underdeveloped areas. By allowing the private sector to determine for themselves, helps the telecommunications industry as a whole. At the same time, enforce rules in which paid prioritization, data throttling, and data discrimination are illegal. By regulating the industry to remain fair and neutral, while at the same time allowing the telecommunications industry to determine the future, may provide the best outcome for both parties. While some in the private sector are