Since libraries began offering public access to the Internet, the management of information content has become much more complex and controversial than before. Indeed, providing public education on using the Internet in a careful and responsible way is considered essential.

The mission of Web Awareness for Librarians is to respond to the needs of librarians and the public in order to ensure that young people are using the Internet in a safe and savvy way.

This site has two separate sections.

The first, Professional Resources, focuses on the management of an Internet service in the library, continuing education for staff, and communication and promotional activities aimed at making the public aware of this new technology.

The second section, Resources and Activities for the Public, presents an overview of the challenges faced by young people using the Internet. Activities (public education workshops, educational games, and a special Web Awareness Day) are suggested in order to inform parents and to assist young surfers in developing the critical thinking skills essential to using the Internet effectively.

The information content in Web Awareness for Librarians has been translated and adapted from Les Cyberbibliothécaires. Web Awareness for Librarians has been made possible through financial assistance from the Department of Canadian Heritage’s Trade Routes Program (http://www.pch.gc.ca/progs/
ac-ca/progs/rc-tr/progs/pcrc-trcp/index_e.cfm).