Children's Internet Protection Act: Questions and Answers | WA Secretary of State
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:16
Children's Internet Protection Act: Questions and Answers | WA Secretary of State
Skip to main content
Washington State Library closure
Effective July 1, 2025, the Washington State Library in Tumwater is closed to the public due to a loss of funding. Limited access will be available
by appointment only on Thursdays from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
To request an appointment, please email
[email protected]
.
Children's Internet Protection Act: Questions and Answers
OSOS Home
Washington State Library
Resources For Libraries
Library Development
Technology
Children's Internet Protection Act
Children's Internet Protection Act: Questions and Answers
When do the requirements of CIPA go in to affect?
Are all E-rate discounts affected by the CIPA ruling?
If libraries choose to continue receiving federal funds for E-rate, when must decisions be made and filters installed? Can a library's decision change?
Do all the workstations in a library need to be filtered or only those accessible by patrons?
If my library filters all workstations, must we also require an acceptable use policy (AUP)?
What is NCIPA?
Who bears the cost of installing filters? Our fiscal year runs from January 1 to December 31 and our budget does not include funding for this mandate.
When must the filtering be turned off? How are we expected to “turn off” a filter when requested by patrons?
Just how much filtering is required? Will my current filter be adequate to meet the requirements of this legislation?
How will my library's connection to the K20 Network be affected if we choose not to meet the requirements of CIPA?
How will young people be able to conduct legitimate research on topics that are blocked by filters?
Does CIPA apply to all federal funding coming to public libraries?
Do I need to inform the public that our library is filtering?
Do I need to update our library's technology plan?
If our library has previously received computer hardware or software from E-rate or LSTA funds, are we required to filter?
Within CIPA, at what age is a person considered to be an adult? Is it 17 or 18?
My library has an automated program that patrons login to using their bar code number/patron ID. The login provides access to the library catalog and the Internet. The automation system automatically places a user in filtered or unfiltered access, depending upon their profile. If an adult requests unfiltered access, must they do so on every visit to the library, or can we change it once in the profile and still be CIPA compliant?
How do we manage/administer staff computers? Will we require staff to sign anything? Will we be able to keep anonymous logins?
Who decides that a filter is CIPA compliant?
Is there any instance where staff can override filtering on a children's computer?
When do the requirements of CIPA go in to affect?
According to the FCC order, “This Order and the accompanying rules shall be effective upon the later of publication in the Federal Register, approval of the revised FCC Forms 486 and 479, or the effective date of the Supreme Court decision.” As of August 1, 2003, neither the publication of the revised forms nor publication of this order in the Federal Register have occurred.
Top
Are all E-rate discounts affected by the CIPA ruling?
No. E-rate discounts are divided into three distinct groups of services. Only “Internet access” and “internal connections” are subject to CIPA. “Telecommunications”, which may include telephone service and data circuits is specifically excluded from CIPA's restrictions. For a comprehensive list of eligible services in each category, examine the Universal Service Administration Company (USAC) Schools and Libraries Division's
Eligible Services List
or
contact Library Development
.
Top
If libraries choose to continue receiving federal funds for E-rate, when must decisions be made and filters installed? Can a library's decision change?
The FCC notes that it would be “unrealistic” to expect libraries to be fully CIPA compliant during Funding Year 2003 (FY03). Therefore, “…CIPA allows libraries either to certify (1) that they are in compliance with CIPA or (2) that they are 'undertaking such actions, including any necessary procurement procedures, to put in place' the required policy measures to comply with CIPA for the next funding year.” However, those libraries seeking discounts for either Internet access or internal connections in FY03 must resubmit the revised FCC Form 486/479 indicating their CIPA status. Nothing precludes a change to a Library's CIPA status.
Top
Do all the workstations in a library need to be filtered or only those accessible by patrons?
The original CIPA legislation required “…the operation of a technology protection measure with respect to any of its computers with Internet access.” No exceptions were made for subsets of these computers, such as staff and “adult only” workstations.
Top
If my library filters all workstations, must we also require an acceptable use policy (AUP)?
The CIPA legislation requires compliant libraries have “… in place a policy of Internet safety … that includes the operation of a technology protection measure with respect to any of its computers with Internet…” Your AUP would be required if it serves the purpose of “a policy of Internet safety” as defined by CIPA/NCIPA.
Top
What is NCIPA?
The Neighborhood Children's Internet Protection Act (NCIPA) sets guidelines for a library's “policy of Internet safety”. This policy must apress: “(I) access by minors to inappropriate matter on the Internet and World Wide Web; (II) the safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms, and other forms of direct electronic communications; (III) unauthorized access, including so-called 'hacking', and other unlawful activities by minors online; (IV) unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors; and (V) whether the school or library, as the case may be, is employing hardware, software, or other technological means to limit, monitor, or otherwise control or guide Internet access by minors”. NCIPA also requires a library to “…provided reasonable public notice and held at least one public hearing or meeting which apressed the proposed Internet use policy.”
Top
Who bears the cost of installing filters? Our fiscal year runs from January 1 to December 31 and our budget does not include funding for this mandate.
Your library is responsible for all costs arising from the implementation of CIPA compliance. While FCC Order 03-188 notes that, given the timeframe, “…it is unrealistic to expect all libraries to be in a position to certify compliance with CIPA for Funding Year 2003…”, it does require that “During Funding Year 2003, all libraries that receive discounts for Internet access or internal connections must certify that they are either compliant with CIPA or undertaking efforts to be in compliance by the time the libraries commence services for Funding Year 2004.”
Top
When must the filtering be turned off? How are we expected to “turn off” a filter when requested by patrons?
FCC Order 03-188 states that in order to comply with the statute's Internet filtering requirement a library must “… implement a procedure for unblocking the filter upon request by an adult.” No situation was given where minors would be allowed unfiltered access to the Internet. The mechanism for unblocking adult access to Internet sites is unspecified by the FCC and is left to the discretion the individual library.
Top
Just how much filtering is required? Will my current filter be adequate to meet the requirements of this legislation?
The Federal government has published no lists of sites that must be restricted nor has it set standards for blocking. The CIPA legislation requires the operation of a technology protection measure with respect to any of a library's computers with Internet access that protects against access through such computers to visual depictions that are-1) obscene; 2) child pornography; or in the case of minors 3) harmful to minors. FCC Order 01-120 originally implemented CIPA in regards to the E-rate program. It noted that “Some commenters have requested that we require entities to certify to the effectiveness of their Internet safety policy and technology protection measures. However, such a certification of effectiveness is not required by the statute. Moreover, aping an effectiveness standard does not comport with our goal of minimizing the burden we place on schools and libraries. Therefore, we will not adopt an effectiveness certification requirement.”
Top
How will my library's connection to the K20 Network be affected if we choose not to meet the requirements of CIPA?
Connection to the statewide K20 Network requires neither filtering nor compliance with the CIPA regulations. Cost to participate, however, may be affected. The quarterly billing received by your library for use of the network includes both the cost for data circuits and ISP (Internet Service Provider) charges. The circuit fee falls under the E-rate category of “telecommunications” and IS NOT subject to CIPA. This cost will not vary regardless of your library filtering status. The second portion of your bill, ISP charges, IS subject to CIPA. If your library chooses to be fully CIPA compliant and has filed an FCC Form 479 indicating this with the State Library, any savings realized will be passed back to the consortium members.
Top
How will young people be able to conduct legitimate research on topics that are blocked by filters?
No provision is made to grant unfiltered access to the Internet to minors. Minors may, however, request that the library “unblock” sites that they feel have been blocked inappropriately.
Top
Does CIPA apply to all federal funding coming to public libraries?
CIPA states that “No funds made available under this Act for a library … may be used to purchase computers used to access the Internet, or to pay for direct costs associated with accessing the Internet …” Of the programs administered by the Washington State Library, only E-rate discounts and LSTA grants are affected by the restrictions of this legislation. We would urge that you directly contact other agencies that may administer federal monies coming to your institution for their answers to this question.
Top
Do I need to inform the public that our library is filtering?
No guidance was given on this question in either the original legislation or the ensuing court decisions. This is a policy issue that should be apressed by your board.
Top
Do I need to update our library's technology plan?
Beginning in Funding Year 2015 (July 2015-June 2016), no technology plan is required for the purpose of E-rate.
Top
If our library has previously received computer hardware or software from E-rate or LSTA funds, are we required to filter?
No.
Top
Within CIPA, at what age is a person considered to be an adult? Is it 17 or 18?
From the definitions section of the Children's Internet Protection Act, a “minor” is defined as: “The term 'minor' means any individual who has not attained the age of 17 years.” Therefore, an adult is anyone 17 years of age and older.
Top
My library has an automated program that patrons login to using their bar code number/patron ID. The login provides access to the library catalog and the Internet. The automation system automatically places a user in filtered or unfiltered access, depending upon their profile. If an adult requests unfiltered access, must they do so on every visit to the library, or can we change it once in the profile and still be CIPA compliant?
FCC Order 03-188 states that a library must “...implement a procedure for unblocking the filter upon request by an adult”, it does not specify how this will occur or whether it needs to be done repeatedly. The CIPA legislation itself says “An administrator, supervisor, or person authorized by the responsible authority under paragraph (1) may disable the technology protection measure concerned to enable access for bona fide research or other lawful purposes.”
It would appear that as long as a mechanism is in place that can assure that the unfiltered session is for the “adult” in question, then the library is compliant. If the library cannot assure this, then the “...procedure for unblocking the filter...” is flawed and unusable. For example, if a minor can login using an adult's unfiltered profile, or an unfiltered adult profile is left logged in where a minor can use the terminal, this would not be in compliance. The use of such a procedure would have to be a judgement/policy call on the part of the library board and administration.
The question to be answered by a library is: “What constitutes bona fide research or other lawful purposes and what time period should be associated with that research or purpose?” Such research or purpose will likely not be indefinite and will likely need to be reviewed from time to time.
Top
How do we manage/administer staff computers? Will we require staff to sign anything? Will we be able to keep anonymous logins?
Staff computers are not exempt from filtering. There is nothing that staff or the public are required to sign to use the internet, unless your board decides to implement such a policy. Authorized staff are allowed to turn filters off. One would assume, that the same staff would be authorized to turn filters off on staff machines. Who you authorize to do this and what your policy is for turning a filter off upon request will be a local decision.
You can have anonymous or generic logins. If the logins activate a non-filtered profile (which would have to comply with your policy and be disabled by an “authorized staff member”), then the users of those terminals would need to agree to unfiltered access and no one under 17 could use them for any reason.
Top
Who decides that a filter is CIPA compliant?
There are definitions of what the filter should do (see the FAQ), but there is no authoritative list of what should be blocked. Your board will have to review the available filtering options and decide what works for your community.
Top
Is there any instance where staff can override filtering on a children's computer?
No. Minors have to use filtered terminals.
Top
Contact
Cody Hanson
[email protected]
(360) 480-0315
Funded in part by the Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) through the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA).
Home
About the Office
Secretary of State Steve Hobbs Biography
Newsroom
Employment
Internship Opportunities
Public Records Request
Invite Secretary Hobbs to an Event
History of the Office
Washington's Secretaries of State - Past and Present
Contact Us
Corporations & Charities
Business Entities
Filings, Forms & Information
Limited Liability Companies
Return a Business to Active Status
Limited Liability Company (LLC) & Professional LLC (PLLC) Filing Resource Page
Maintain Business Compliance
Registered Agents
Annual Reports
Period of Duration
Online Filing Instructions
Close a Corporation Online
Close an LLC, PLLC, LP, LLP, LLLP Online
File an Annual Report (Multiple Entity Tpyes) Online
File an Annual Report (Nonprofit 24.03A Only) Online
Register a Foreign (Non-WA) Limited Liability Company (LLC) Online
Register a Foreign (Non-WA) Limited Liability Limited Partnership (LLLP) Online
Register a Foreign (Non-WA) Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) Online
Register a Foreign (Non-WA) Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC) Online
Register a Foreign (Non-WA) Professional Limited Liability Partnership (PLLP) Online
Register a Foreign (Non-WA) Professional Service Corporation Online
Register a Foreign (Non-WA) Profit Corporation Online
Reinstate a LLC, PLLC, Profit or Professional Service Corporation Online
Reinstate a Nonprofit Miscellaneous & Mutual Corporation Online
Reinstate a Nonprofit or Nonprofit Professional Service Corporation Online
Requalify an LLC, PLLC, Profit or Professional Service Corporation Online
Start a Domestic (WA) LP or LLLP Online
Start a Domestic (WA) Limited Liability Corporation Online
Start a Domestic (WA) Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) Online
Start a Domestic (WA) Nonprofit Corporation Online
Start a Domestic (WA) Nonprofit Professional Service Corporation Online
Start a Domestic (WA) Professional Limited Liability Corporation (PLLC) Online
Start a Domestic (WA) Professional Limited Liability Partnership (PLLP) Online
Start a Domestic (WA) Profit Corporation Online
Start a Domestic (WA) Profit Professional Service Corporation Online
Start a Domestic (WA) Social Purpose Corporation Online
Submit an Amended Annual Report (All Entity Types) Online
Submit an Initial Report (All Entity Types except NPs) Online
Ownership
Start or Register a Business
Register a Foreign (Non-WA) Business
Start a Domestic (WA) Business
Steps after Registration with the Secretary of State
Update Business Information
Voluntary Business Closure: Dissolution or Withdrawal
Nonprofits & Charities
Organization Search
Nonprofits
Download Forms
2022 Nonprofit Law and Process Changes
Charities
All Forms
Disclosure Requirements
Commercial Fundraisers
Fee Schedule for Commercial Fundraisers
Want to Renew Your Commercial Fundraiser Registration Early?
Charitable Trusts
Fee Schedule for Charitable Trusts
Information for Donors
Resources for Donors
Frequently Asked Questions by Donors
Storefront Solicitors- Where does your donation go?
National "Do Not Call" Registry
Reducing Unwanted Telephone Solicitations and Junk Mail
Assured Giving
Commercial Fundraiser Activity Reports
To File a Complaint
Nonprofit & Charity Resources
Apostilles Program
Apostilles Frequently Asked Questions
Apostille and Certificate Authenticity Search
Contact Information and Location - Apostilles
Additional Services
Service of Process/Summons and Complaint
Trademarks
Domestic Partnerships
Domestic Partnership FAQs
Laws and Regulations
International Student Exchange Agency Program (ISEA)
Massachusetts Trust Registration
Fish Marketing Act
Resources
Business Entities
Washington State Small Business Guide
Washington Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (OMWBE)
Veteran Owned Business Certification
Small Business Administration (SBA)
Small Business Development Centers (SBDC)
SCORE Business Mentoring
Prevent and Detect Business Identity Theft
Washington Attorney General Consumer Protection
Nonprofits & Charities
Compliance (State and Federal)
Nonprofit Association of Washington (NAWA)
National Do Not Call Registry
Consumer FAQs
Videos - Webinars - Recordings
Annual Information Return from Tax-Exempt Org
Small Business Resource
Public Notices
Charities Advisory Council
CLE Resources
Legal Actions Taken by the Attorney General
Note to Financial Institutions
Current Rulemaking
Online Filing System Outage
Contact Us
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Common Reasons for Returned Documents
FAQ - Do I need to register my out of state business in Washington state?
Glossary of Terms
What addresses to use when filing?
What are Washington State Business Structures?
Governors/Officers/Directors/Members/Managers
FAQ - Trademarks
FAQ - How do I get copies
Fee Schedule / Expedited Service
Glossary of Terms
FAQ - Charitable Organizations
CCFS
Account Creation
Certificate of Existence
Examples of Potentially Confusing or Misleading “Notices” & “Solicitations”
How Do I Order Certified Copies?
I think I received a notice from your office; what should I do?
Reset/Forgot Password
Previously Posted Alerts & Information
Processing Guidelines and Procedure
Elections
Voters
Voter Eligibility & Resources
Voter Eligibility
Future Voter Program
How to Receive a Ballot
Military and Overseas Voters
Voters with Disabilities
Voting in Assisted Living Facilities
Felony Convictions and Voting Rights
Voters Away at College
New Washington Resident
Seasonal Resident - Snowbird
Residency Requirements
Voter Registration
Online Voter Registration
Print a Voter Registration Form
Requesting Voter Registration Forms By Mail
Automatic Voter Registration (AVR)
County Elections Offices
Drop Box and Voting Center Locations
3 Ways to Register to Vote
Helpful Information
Current Election Information
Top 2 Primary: FAQs for Voters
Frequently Asked Questions about Elections
Frequently Asked Questions on Voting by Mail
Current Federal & State Elected Officials
Descriptions of Elected Offices
Wildfires and voting
Electoral College
Electoral College Electors
Presidential Primary FAQ
Proposed Ballot Measure Information
Securing Your Vote
2021 Voters' Pamphlet Audio
Candidates
Filing Resources
File for Office
Candidates Who Have Filed
Washington State Officials' Salary Information
Running for President of the United States
Withdrawal of Candidacy
Information
Current District Maps
Descriptions of Elected Offices
Washington State Voter Registration Database
Voter Registration Tools
Cybersecurity Campaign Playbook (Belfer Center)
Frequently Asked Questions
Candidate Filing FAQ
Write-in Candidacy
Top Two Primary: FAQs for Candidates
Recount FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions on Voting By Mail
Frequently Asked Questions about Elections
Campaign Regulation
Washington Public Disclosure Commission
Federal Elections Commission
Political signs on highways
Initiatives & Referenda
Current Initiatives & Referenda
Past Initiatives
2024 Initiatives to the Legislature Measure Assignments
Initiatives to the People Measure Assignments
Initiatives to the Legislature Measure Assignments
Petition Observer Resources
Filing an Initiative
Initiative and Referenda Handbook
How to Sponsor an Initiative
File Online
FAQ - Circulating Initiative and Referendum Petitions
Filing Resources
Affidavit for proposed Initiative
Affidavit for proposed Referendum
Petition Template Instructions
Petition Template - Initiative to the People
Petition Template - Initiative to the Legislature
Education & Outreach
K-12 & College
Future Voter Program
Student Mock Election
Teaching Elections in Washington State
Request copy of Teaching Elections in WA State
Temperance and Good Citizenship Day
Washington Campus Voting Challenge
Voters
Language Access for Voters
3 Ways to Register to Vote Video
Path of a Ballot Video
Video Collection
Outreach and Voter Registration Handouts
Voter Registration Drive Tools
Guide to Registering Voters
Online Voter Registration
Requesting Voter Registration Forms By Mail
Voter Eligibility
Request a Voter Registration Starter Kit
Voter Outreach and Education Materials
Elections Kit
Same Day Registration
Data & Research
Election Data and Maps
Current Election Ballot Return Statistics
Current Election Ballot Status Reports
Reports, Data, and Statistics
Voter Demographics
Monthly Voter Registration Transactions
Voter Registration Database
Ballot Drop Box Usage by Year
Voter Participation Statistics
Voter Turnout by Election
General Election Turnout
Redistricting & Census Information
Precinct Shapefiles
Election Results and Voters' Pamphlets
2026 February Special Election
Washington State Election Results Archive
2024 Court Designated Legislative/Congressional Maps
Section 203 Language Access for Voters Map
History, Laws, and Litigation
Election Laws
History of the Washington State Primary
Constitutional Amendment Ballot Measures
Election Technology
Voter Registration Database
Understanding Voter Registration Data
Voting Systems by County
Voting System Testing and Certification
Securing Your Vote
Post-Election Audits
Public Notices
Public Hearings and Meetings
Elections Rulemaking
Administrators
Certification & Training
Election Administrator Certification
About Certification and Training
How to Become Certified
Training Materials and Videos
Elections 101
Apply for Certification
Certification Exam
Election Laws
ADA Ballot Drop Box Accessibility
ADA Checklist for Voting Centers
Clearinghouse Notices & Elections Advisories
Introduction to County Canvassing Boards
Presidential Primary Advisories and Resources
Recent Rulemaking
State & Federal Election Laws and Checklists
Statewide Standards on What is a Vote
Election Resources
Recount FAQ
Presidential Primary Resources & Training Materials
Forms & Templates
Forms for Voters
Forms for Candidates
Voter Registration Challenges
Certification, L&A Tests, and Recounts
Election Cost Allocation and Reimbursement
Forms for Voters
Print a Voter Registration Form
Agency-based Voter Registration Forms
Special Absentee Ballot Application
HAVA Complaint Form
Voter Registration Cancellation Form
Contact Info
Contact Us
County Elections Offices
Elections Calendar
Mark the Ballot
Rumor Has It
Archives
Explore Our Collection
Archives Catalog
Online Records
Ask an Archivist
Branches
Central Regional Branch
Eastern Regional Branch
Northwest Regional Branch
Puget Sound Regional Branch
Southwest Regional Branch
State Government
Frequently Asked Research Questions
State Constitution
Teachers & Students
Help for Government Agencies
Managing City Records
Managing County Records
State Agencies
Managing Agricultural Commodity Commission Records
Other Government Agencies
State & Local Government
Imaging Services
Records Center
Committees and Commissions
Archives Advisory Committee
Local Records Committee
Recording Standards Commission
State Records Committee
Advice and Consultations
Draft Public Schools (K-12) Records Retention Schedule v.9.1
Draft Revision of Economic Development and Transport Schedule
Draft Revision of Local Government CORE Schedule
Draft Revision of State Government General Schedule
Help Using Records Retention Schedules
Laws and Rules for Records Management
Managing Beach and Lake Management District Records
Help with Beach and Lake Management District Records Retention
Managing Commodity Commission Records
Managing Executive Level Records
Managing Legal Affairs Records
Managing Policy and Procedure Records
Managing Project Files
Managing Subject Files
Managing Transitory Records
Managing Vehicle Records
Managing Volunteer Records
Previous Versions - Agricultural Commodity Commissions Schedule
Previous Versions - County Assessors and Treasurers Schedule
Records Management Training
Records Retention Schedules
Request a Consultation
Be Involved
Donate
SCRIBE
Out of the Archives Newsletter Archive
Managing Records of Private & Other Non-Government Organizations
Contact Us
Archives Policies
Library
About the State Library
Available Services As Of July 1, 2025
My Library Account
Ask a Librarian
Branch Libraries
History of the Washington State Library
Get a Library Card
Library Staff Directory
Hours of Operation & Directions
State Librarian
Resource Sharing (Interlibrary Loan)
Resource Sharing (Interlibrary Loan) for Individuals
Research & Collections
About The Olympian and Historic Clippings Index
Digital Resources Hub
Washington State Research
Washington State Newspapers
Washington Rural Heritage
Washington Digital Newspapers
Northwest Digital Heritage
State Government Publications
Classics in Washington History
Washington State Publications New Electronic Titles
Federal Government Publications
Genealogy
Collections of the Washington State Library
Special Collections
Collection Bibliographies
Governor's Writers Day Awards at the Washington State Library, 1966-2000
Rare Maps Collection of the Washington State Library
The Washington State Library Tweney 89 Collection
Rare Publications of the Washington State Library
Guidelines for Donating to the Special Collections
Guidelines for the Handling and Care of Special Collections
Manuscripts Collection of the Washington State Library
Special Collections Frequently Asked Questions
Governor Isaac Stevens' Territorial Library Collection
Ye Galleon Press Collection
City Directories & Telephone Books
County Directories
Federal Government Resources
Land Records in Washington State
Northwest Cards
Obituary Requests
Washington State Depository Program Libraries
Washington Territorial and State Governors
Women in the Washington State Legislature
Newspapers - Moments in History
Links to Newspapers in Washington
Resources for You
Postmarked Washington
Primarily Washington
Washington State Book Awards
Librarian Certification
Washington Librarian Certification FAQ
Institutional Library Services Wishlist
Washington Center for the Book
Resources for Libraries
First Tuesdays: Continuing Education
Library Development
Contacts by Name
Technology
Children's Internet Protection Act
Children's Internet Protection Act: Questions and Answers
Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) and Filtering
E-Rate Information for Public Libraries
Technology Services
Training
Training Calendar
Training and Certification Resources
Trustee Support
Resources & Training for Public Library Staff - Washington State Library - WA Secretary of State
Resources & Training for School Library Staff
LSTA Background
Publications
Previous Publications (1999 - 2022)
Washington Digital Library Consortium
LinkedIn Learning
Northstar
Projects
Advantages of Washington Group Services
All Aboard for Kindergarten
Check Out Washington
Data Consultation
Digital Inclusion Resource Collection
Early Learning Support
Open Data - Library
Statewide Projects and Initiatives
Teacher-Librarian Common Core Cadre (TLC
Washington Group Services News
Washington OCLC Group Services Libraries
Washington OCLC Group Services
Washington Public Libraries and the K-20 Network
Washington State's Summer Reading Program
Youth Services
Circulating STEAM Program Kits
Library Services for School-Age Youth
Library Services for Teens
Subscribe to the Library Newsletter
Grants for Libraries
Library Council
Professional Development and Training
All Resources for Libraries
AskWA
Workforce Development
Email Lists
Washington State Public Library Policies
WA Talking Book & Braille Library
Statewide Programs
Address Confidentiality Program (ACP)
About Us
Do I Qualify?
Application Process
Is the ACP appropriate for me?
Participants
Owning a Business. Nonprofit, or Charity.
Participant Forms
Participant Responsibilities
Purchasing a Home
Survivor Resources
Updating ACP Information
Using Your Substitute Address
Voter Registration - ACP
Advocates
Agencies and Businesses
Civic Engagement Program (CEP)
Combined Fund Drive (CFD)
Legacy Washington
Global War on Terrorism Memorial
Medals of Merit & Valor
Educational Resources: Learn with OSOS
Simply Washington
State Flag
State Seal
Buy Books and Flags
Washington State Productivity Board
About the Productivity Board
Productivity Board Awards
Productivity Board Programs
Submit an Idea
Skip to main content
Washington State Library closure
Effective July 1, 2025, the Washington State Library in Tumwater is closed to the public due to a loss of funding. Limited access will be available
by appointment only on Thursdays from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
To request an appointment, please email
[email protected]
.
Children's Internet Protection Act: Questions and Answers
OSOS Home
Washington State Library
Resources For Libraries
Library Development
Technology
Children's Internet Protection Act
Children's Internet Protection Act: Questions and Answers
When do the requirements of CIPA go in to affect?
Are all E-rate discounts affected by the CIPA ruling?
If libraries choose to continue receiving federal funds for E-rate, when must decisions be made and filters installed? Can a library's decision change?
Do all the workstations in a library need to be filtered or only those accessible by patrons?
If my library filters all workstations, must we also require an acceptable use policy (AUP)?
What is NCIPA?
Who bears the cost of installing filters? Our fiscal year runs from January 1 to December 31 and our budget does not include funding for this mandate.
When must the filtering be turned off? How are we expected to “turn off” a filter when requested by patrons?
Just how much filtering is required? Will my current filter be adequate to meet the requirements of this legislation?
How will my library's connection to the K20 Network be affected if we choose not to meet the requirements of CIPA?
How will young people be able to conduct legitimate research on topics that are blocked by filters?
Does CIPA apply to all federal funding coming to public libraries?
Do I need to inform the public that our library is filtering?
Do I need to update our library's technology plan?
If our library has previously received computer hardware or software from E-rate or LSTA funds, are we required to filter?
Within CIPA, at what age is a person considered to be an adult? Is it 17 or 18?
My library has an automated program that patrons login to using their bar code number/patron ID. The login provides access to the library catalog and the Internet. The automation system automatically places a user in filtered or unfiltered access, depending upon their profile. If an adult requests unfiltered access, must they do so on every visit to the library, or can we change it once in the profile and still be CIPA compliant?
How do we manage/administer staff computers? Will we require staff to sign anything? Will we be able to keep anonymous logins?
Who decides that a filter is CIPA compliant?
Is there any instance where staff can override filtering on a children's computer?
When do the requirements of CIPA go in to affect?
According to the FCC order, “This Order and the accompanying rules shall be effective upon the later of publication in the Federal Register, approval of the revised FCC Forms 486 and 479, or the effective date of the Supreme Court decision.” As of August 1, 2003, neither the publication of the revised forms nor publication of this order in the Federal Register have occurred.
Top
Are all E-rate discounts affected by the CIPA ruling?
No. E-rate discounts are divided into three distinct groups of services. Only “Internet access” and “internal connections” are subject to CIPA. “Telecommunications”, which may include telephone service and data circuits is specifically excluded from CIPA's restrictions. For a comprehensive list of eligible services in each category, examine the Universal Service Administration Company (USAC) Schools and Libraries Division's
Eligible Services List
or
contact Library Development
.
Top
If libraries choose to continue receiving federal funds for E-rate, when must decisions be made and filters installed? Can a library's decision change?
The FCC notes that it would be “unrealistic” to expect libraries to be fully CIPA compliant during Funding Year 2003 (FY03). Therefore, “…CIPA allows libraries either to certify (1) that they are in compliance with CIPA or (2) that they are 'undertaking such actions, including any necessary procurement procedures, to put in place' the required policy measures to comply with CIPA for the next funding year.” However, those libraries seeking discounts for either Internet access or internal connections in FY03 must resubmit the revised FCC Form 486/479 indicating their CIPA status. Nothing precludes a change to a Library's CIPA status.
Top
Do all the workstations in a library need to be filtered or only those accessible by patrons?
The original CIPA legislation required “…the operation of a technology protection measure with respect to any of its computers with Internet access.” No exceptions were made for subsets of these computers, such as staff and “adult only” workstations.
Top
If my library filters all workstations, must we also require an acceptable use policy (AUP)?
The CIPA legislation requires compliant libraries have “… in place a policy of Internet safety … that includes the operation of a technology protection measure with respect to any of its computers with Internet…” Your AUP would be required if it serves the purpose of “a policy of Internet safety” as defined by CIPA/NCIPA.
Top
What is NCIPA?
The Neighborhood Children's Internet Protection Act (NCIPA) sets guidelines for a library's “policy of Internet safety”. This policy must apress: “(I) access by minors to inappropriate matter on the Internet and World Wide Web; (II) the safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms, and other forms of direct electronic communications; (III) unauthorized access, including so-called 'hacking', and other unlawful activities by minors online; (IV) unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors; and (V) whether the school or library, as the case may be, is employing hardware, software, or other technological means to limit, monitor, or otherwise control or guide Internet access by minors”. NCIPA also requires a library to “…provided reasonable public notice and held at least one public hearing or meeting which apressed the proposed Internet use policy.”
Top
Who bears the cost of installing filters? Our fiscal year runs from January 1 to December 31 and our budget does not include funding for this mandate.
Your library is responsible for all costs arising from the implementation of CIPA compliance. While FCC Order 03-188 notes that, given the timeframe, “…it is unrealistic to expect all libraries to be in a position to certify compliance with CIPA for Funding Year 2003…”, it does require that “During Funding Year 2003, all libraries that receive discounts for Internet access or internal connections must certify that they are either compliant with CIPA or undertaking efforts to be in compliance by the time the libraries commence services for Funding Year 2004.”
Top
When must the filtering be turned off? How are we expected to “turn off” a filter when requested by patrons?
FCC Order 03-188 states that in order to comply with the statute's Internet filtering requirement a library must “… implement a procedure for unblocking the filter upon request by an adult.” No situation was given where minors would be allowed unfiltered access to the Internet. The mechanism for unblocking adult access to Internet sites is unspecified by the FCC and is left to the discretion the individual library.
Top
Just how much filtering is required? Will my current filter be adequate to meet the requirements of this legislation?
The Federal government has published no lists of sites that must be restricted nor has it set standards for blocking. The CIPA legislation requires the operation of a technology protection measure with respect to any of a library's computers with Internet access that protects against access through such computers to visual depictions that are-1) obscene; 2) child pornography; or in the case of minors 3) harmful to minors. FCC Order 01-120 originally implemented CIPA in regards to the E-rate program. It noted that “Some commenters have requested that we require entities to certify to the effectiveness of their Internet safety policy and technology protection measures. However, such a certification of effectiveness is not required by the statute. Moreover, aping an effectiveness standard does not comport with our goal of minimizing the burden we place on schools and libraries. Therefore, we will not adopt an effectiveness certification requirement.”
Top
How will my library's connection to the K20 Network be affected if we choose not to meet the requirements of CIPA?
Connection to the statewide K20 Network requires neither filtering nor compliance with the CIPA regulations. Cost to participate, however, may be affected. The quarterly billing received by your library for use of the network includes both the cost for data circuits and ISP (Internet Service Provider) charges. The circuit fee falls under the E-rate category of “telecommunications” and IS NOT subject to CIPA. This cost will not vary regardless of your library filtering status. The second portion of your bill, ISP charges, IS subject to CIPA. If your library chooses to be fully CIPA compliant and has filed an FCC Form 479 indicating this with the State Library, any savings realized will be passed back to the consortium members.
Top
How will young people be able to conduct legitimate research on topics that are blocked by filters?
No provision is made to grant unfiltered access to the Internet to minors. Minors may, however, request that the library “unblock” sites that they feel have been blocked inappropriately.
Top
Does CIPA apply to all federal funding coming to public libraries?
CIPA states that “No funds made available under this Act for a library … may be used to purchase computers used to access the Internet, or to pay for direct costs associated with accessing the Internet …” Of the programs administered by the Washington State Library, only E-rate discounts and LSTA grants are affected by the restrictions of this legislation. We would urge that you directly contact other agencies that may administer federal monies coming to your institution for their answers to this question.
Top
Do I need to inform the public that our library is filtering?
No guidance was given on this question in either the original legislation or the ensuing court decisions. This is a policy issue that should be apressed by your board.
Top
Do I need to update our library's technology plan?
Beginning in Funding Year 2015 (July 2015-June 2016), no technology plan is required for the purpose of E-rate.
Top
If our library has previously received computer hardware or software from E-rate or LSTA funds, are we required to filter?
No.
Top
Within CIPA, at what age is a person considered to be an adult? Is it 17 or 18?
From the definitions section of the Children's Internet Protection Act, a “minor” is defined as: “The term 'minor' means any individual who has not attained the age of 17 years.” Therefore, an adult is anyone 17 years of age and older.
Top
My library has an automated program that patrons login to using their bar code number/patron ID. The login provides access to the library catalog and the Internet. The automation system automatically places a user in filtered or unfiltered access, depending upon their profile. If an adult requests unfiltered access, must they do so on every visit to the library, or can we change it once in the profile and still be CIPA compliant?
FCC Order 03-188 states that a library must “...implement a procedure for unblocking the filter upon request by an adult”, it does not specify how this will occur or whether it needs to be done repeatedly. The CIPA legislation itself says “An administrator, supervisor, or person authorized by the responsible authority under paragraph (1) may disable the technology protection measure concerned to enable access for bona fide research or other lawful purposes.”
It would appear that as long as a mechanism is in place that can assure that the unfiltered session is for the “adult” in question, then the library is compliant. If the library cannot assure this, then the “...procedure for unblocking the filter...” is flawed and unusable. For example, if a minor can login using an adult's unfiltered profile, or an unfiltered adult profile is left logged in where a minor can use the terminal, this would not be in compliance. The use of such a procedure would have to be a judgement/policy call on the part of the library board and administration.
The question to be answered by a library is: “What constitutes bona fide research or other lawful purposes and what time period should be associated with that research or purpose?” Such research or purpose will likely not be indefinite and will likely need to be reviewed from time to time.
Top
How do we manage/administer staff computers? Will we require staff to sign anything? Will we be able to keep anonymous logins?
Staff computers are not exempt from filtering. There is nothing that staff or the public are required to sign to use the internet, unless your board decides to implement such a policy. Authorized staff are allowed to turn filters off. One would assume, that the same staff would be authorized to turn filters off on staff machines. Who you authorize to do this and what your policy is for turning a filter off upon request will be a local decision.
You can have anonymous or generic logins. If the logins activate a non-filtered profile (which would have to comply with your policy and be disabled by an “authorized staff member”), then the users of those terminals would need to agree to unfiltered access and no one under 17 could use them for any reason.
Top
Who decides that a filter is CIPA compliant?
There are definitions of what the filter should do (see the FAQ), but there is no authoritative list of what should be blocked. Your board will have to review the available filtering options and decide what works for your community.
Top
Is there any instance where staff can override filtering on a children's computer?
No. Minors have to use filtered terminals.
Top
Contact
Cody Hanson
[email protected]
(360) 480-0315
Funded in part by the Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) through the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA).
Home
About the Office
Secretary of State Steve Hobbs Biography
Newsroom
Employment
Internship Opportunities
Public Records Request
Invite Secretary Hobbs to an Event
History of the Office
Washington's Secretaries of State - Past and Present
Contact Us
Corporations & Charities
Business Entities
Filings, Forms & Information
Limited Liability Companies
Return a Business to Active Status
Limited Liability Company (LLC) & Professional LLC (PLLC) Filing Resource Page
Maintain Business Compliance
Registered Agents
Annual Reports
Period of Duration
Online Filing Instructions
Close a Corporation Online
Close an LLC, PLLC, LP, LLP, LLLP Online
File an Annual Report (Multiple Entity Tpyes) Online
File an Annual Report (Nonprofit 24.03A Only) Online
Register a Foreign (Non-WA) Limited Liability Company (LLC) Online
Register a Foreign (Non-WA) Limited Liability Limited Partnership (LLLP) Online
Register a Foreign (Non-WA) Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) Online
Register a Foreign (Non-WA) Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC) Online
Register a Foreign (Non-WA) Professional Limited Liability Partnership (PLLP) Online
Register a Foreign (Non-WA) Professional Service Corporation Online
Register a Foreign (Non-WA) Profit Corporation Online
Reinstate a LLC, PLLC, Profit or Professional Service Corporation Online
Reinstate a Nonprofit Miscellaneous & Mutual Corporation Online
Reinstate a Nonprofit or Nonprofit Professional Service Corporation Online
Requalify an LLC, PLLC, Profit or Professional Service Corporation Online
Start a Domestic (WA) LP or LLLP Online
Start a Domestic (WA) Limited Liability Corporation Online
Start a Domestic (WA) Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) Online
Start a Domestic (WA) Nonprofit Corporation Online
Start a Domestic (WA) Nonprofit Professional Service Corporation Online
Start a Domestic (WA) Professional Limited Liability Corporation (PLLC) Online
Start a Domestic (WA) Professional Limited Liability Partnership (PLLP) Online
Start a Domestic (WA) Profit Corporation Online
Start a Domestic (WA) Profit Professional Service Corporation Online
Start a Domestic (WA) Social Purpose Corporation Online
Submit an Amended Annual Report (All Entity Types) Online
Submit an Initial Report (All Entity Types except NPs) Online
Ownership
Start or Register a Business
Register a Foreign (Non-WA) Business
Start a Domestic (WA) Business
Steps after Registration with the Secretary of State
Update Business Information
Voluntary Business Closure: Dissolution or Withdrawal
Nonprofits & Charities
Organization Search
Nonprofits
Download Forms
2022 Nonprofit Law and Process Changes
Charities
All Forms
Disclosure Requirements
Commercial Fundraisers
Fee Schedule for Commercial Fundraisers
Want to Renew Your Commercial Fundraiser Registration Early?
Charitable Trusts
Fee Schedule for Charitable Trusts
Information for Donors
Resources for Donors
Frequently Asked Questions by Donors
Storefront Solicitors- Where does your donation go?
National "Do Not Call" Registry
Reducing Unwanted Telephone Solicitations and Junk Mail
Assured Giving
Commercial Fundraiser Activity Reports
To File a Complaint
Nonprofit & Charity Resources
Apostilles Program
Apostilles Frequently Asked Questions
Apostille and Certificate Authenticity Search
Contact Information and Location - Apostilles
Additional Services
Service of Process/Summons and Complaint
Trademarks
Domestic Partnerships
Domestic Partnership FAQs
Laws and Regulations
International Student Exchange Agency Program (ISEA)
Massachusetts Trust Registration
Fish Marketing Act
Resources
Business Entities
Washington State Small Business Guide
Washington Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (OMWBE)
Veteran Owned Business Certification
Small Business Administration (SBA)
Small Business Development Centers (SBDC)
SCORE Business Mentoring
Prevent and Detect Business Identity Theft
Washington Attorney General Consumer Protection
Nonprofits & Charities
Compliance (State and Federal)
Nonprofit Association of Washington (NAWA)
National Do Not Call Registry
Consumer FAQs
Videos - Webinars - Recordings
Annual Information Return from Tax-Exempt Org
Small Business Resource
Public Notices
Charities Advisory Council
CLE Resources
Legal Actions Taken by the Attorney General
Note to Financial Institutions
Current Rulemaking
Online Filing System Outage
Contact Us
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Common Reasons for Returned Documents
FAQ - Do I need to register my out of state business in Washington state?
Glossary of Terms
What addresses to use when filing?
What are Washington State Business Structures?
Governors/Officers/Directors/Members/Managers
FAQ - Trademarks
FAQ - How do I get copies
Fee Schedule / Expedited Service
Glossary of Terms
FAQ - Charitable Organizations
CCFS
Account Creation
Certificate of Existence
Examples of Potentially Confusing or Misleading “Notices” & “Solicitations”
How Do I Order Certified Copies?
I think I received a notice from your office; what should I do?
Reset/Forgot Password
Previously Posted Alerts & Information
Processing Guidelines and Procedure
Elections
Voters
Voter Eligibility & Resources
Voter Eligibility
Future Voter Program
How to Receive a Ballot
Military and Overseas Voters
Voters with Disabilities
Voting in Assisted Living Facilities
Felony Convictions and Voting Rights
Voters Away at College
New Washington Resident
Seasonal Resident - Snowbird
Residency Requirements
Voter Registration
Online Voter Registration
Print a Voter Registration Form
Requesting Voter Registration Forms By Mail
Automatic Voter Registration (AVR)
County Elections Offices
Drop Box and Voting Center Locations
3 Ways to Register to Vote
Helpful Information
Current Election Information
Top 2 Primary: FAQs for Voters
Frequently Asked Questions about Elections
Frequently Asked Questions on Voting by Mail
Current Federal & State Elected Officials
Descriptions of Elected Offices
Wildfires and voting
Electoral College
Electoral College Electors
Presidential Primary FAQ
Proposed Ballot Measure Information
Securing Your Vote
2021 Voters' Pamphlet Audio
Candidates
Filing Resources
File for Office
Candidates Who Have Filed
Washington State Officials' Salary Information
Running for President of the United States
Withdrawal of Candidacy
Information
Current District Maps
Descriptions of Elected Offices
Washington State Voter Registration Database
Voter Registration Tools
Cybersecurity Campaign Playbook (Belfer Center)
Frequently Asked Questions
Candidate Filing FAQ
Write-in Candidacy
Top Two Primary: FAQs for Candidates
Recount FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions on Voting By Mail
Frequently Asked Questions about Elections
Campaign Regulation
Washington Public Disclosure Commission
Federal Elections Commission
Political signs on highways
Initiatives & Referenda
Current Initiatives & Referenda
Past Initiatives
2024 Initiatives to the Legislature Measure Assignments
Initiatives to the People Measure Assignments
Initiatives to the Legislature Measure Assignments
Petition Observer Resources
Filing an Initiative
Initiative and Referenda Handbook
How to Sponsor an Initiative
File Online
FAQ - Circulating Initiative and Referendum Petitions
Filing Resources
Affidavit for proposed Initiative
Affidavit for proposed Referendum
Petition Template Instructions
Petition Template - Initiative to the People
Petition Template - Initiative to the Legislature
Education & Outreach
K-12 & College
Future Voter Program
Student Mock Election
Teaching Elections in Washington State
Request copy of Teaching Elections in WA State
Temperance and Good Citizenship Day
Washington Campus Voting Challenge
Voters
Language Access for Voters
3 Ways to Register to Vote Video
Path of a Ballot Video
Video Collection
Outreach and Voter Registration Handouts
Voter Registration Drive Tools
Guide to Registering Voters
Online Voter Registration
Requesting Voter Registration Forms By Mail
Voter Eligibility
Request a Voter Registration Starter Kit
Voter Outreach and Education Materials
Elections Kit
Same Day Registration
Data & Research
Election Data and Maps
Current Election Ballot Return Statistics
Current Election Ballot Status Reports
Reports, Data, and Statistics
Voter Demographics
Monthly Voter Registration Transactions
Voter Registration Database
Ballot Drop Box Usage by Year
Voter Participation Statistics
Voter Turnout by Election
General Election Turnout
Redistricting & Census Information
Precinct Shapefiles
Election Results and Voters' Pamphlets
2026 February Special Election
Washington State Election Results Archive
2024 Court Designated Legislative/Congressional Maps
Section 203 Language Access for Voters Map
History, Laws, and Litigation
Election Laws
History of the Washington State Primary
Constitutional Amendment Ballot Measures
Election Technology
Voter Registration Database
Understanding Voter Registration Data
Voting Systems by County
Voting System Testing and Certification
Securing Your Vote
Post-Election Audits
Public Notices
Public Hearings and Meetings
Elections Rulemaking
Administrators
Certification & Training
Election Administrator Certification
About Certification and Training
How to Become Certified
Training Materials and Videos
Elections 101
Apply for Certification
Certification Exam
Election Laws
ADA Ballot Drop Box Accessibility
ADA Checklist for Voting Centers
Clearinghouse Notices & Elections Advisories
Introduction to County Canvassing Boards
Presidential Primary Advisories and Resources
Recent Rulemaking
State & Federal Election Laws and Checklists
Statewide Standards on What is a Vote
Election Resources
Recount FAQ
Presidential Primary Resources & Training Materials
Forms & Templates
Forms for Voters
Forms for Candidates
Voter Registration Challenges
Certification, L&A Tests, and Recounts
Election Cost Allocation and Reimbursement
Forms for Voters
Print a Voter Registration Form
Agency-based Voter Registration Forms
Special Absentee Ballot Application
HAVA Complaint Form
Voter Registration Cancellation Form
Contact Info
Contact Us
County Elections Offices
Elections Calendar
Mark the Ballot
Rumor Has It
Archives
Explore Our Collection
Archives Catalog
Online Records
Ask an Archivist
Branches
Central Regional Branch
Eastern Regional Branch
Northwest Regional Branch
Puget Sound Regional Branch
Southwest Regional Branch
State Government
Frequently Asked Research Questions
State Constitution
Teachers & Students
Help for Government Agencies
Managing City Records
Managing County Records
State Agencies
Managing Agricultural Commodity Commission Records
Other Government Agencies
State & Local Government
Imaging Services
Records Center
Committees and Commissions
Archives Advisory Committee
Local Records Committee
Recording Standards Commission
State Records Committee
Advice and Consultations
Draft Public Schools (K-12) Records Retention Schedule v.9.1
Draft Revision of Economic Development and Transport Schedule
Draft Revision of Local Government CORE Schedule
Draft Revision of State Government General Schedule
Help Using Records Retention Schedules
Laws and Rules for Records Management
Managing Beach and Lake Management District Records
Help with Beach and Lake Management District Records Retention
Managing Commodity Commission Records
Managing Executive Level Records
Managing Legal Affairs Records
Managing Policy and Procedure Records
Managing Project Files
Managing Subject Files
Managing Transitory Records
Managing Vehicle Records
Managing Volunteer Records
Previous Versions - Agricultural Commodity Commissions Schedule
Previous Versions - County Assessors and Treasurers Schedule
Records Management Training
Records Retention Schedules
Request a Consultation
Be Involved
Donate
SCRIBE
Out of the Archives Newsletter Archive
Managing Records of Private & Other Non-Government Organizations
Contact Us
Archives Policies
Library
About the State Library
Available Services As Of July 1, 2025
My Library Account
Ask a Librarian
Branch Libraries
History of the Washington State Library
Get a Library Card
Library Staff Directory
Hours of Operation & Directions
State Librarian
Resource Sharing (Interlibrary Loan)
Resource Sharing (Interlibrary Loan) for Individuals
Research & Collections
About The Olympian and Historic Clippings Index
Digital Resources Hub
Washington State Research
Washington State Newspapers
Washington Rural Heritage
Washington Digital Newspapers
Northwest Digital Heritage
State Government Publications
Classics in Washington History
Washington State Publications New Electronic Titles
Federal Government Publications
Genealogy
Collections of the Washington State Library
Special Collections
Collection Bibliographies
Governor's Writers Day Awards at the Washington State Library, 1966-2000
Rare Maps Collection of the Washington State Library
The Washington State Library Tweney 89 Collection
Rare Publications of the Washington State Library
Guidelines for Donating to the Special Collections
Guidelines for the Handling and Care of Special Collections
Manuscripts Collection of the Washington State Library
Special Collections Frequently Asked Questions
Governor Isaac Stevens' Territorial Library Collection
Ye Galleon Press Collection
City Directories & Telephone Books
County Directories
Federal Government Resources
Land Records in Washington State
Northwest Cards
Obituary Requests
Washington State Depository Program Libraries
Washington Territorial and State Governors
Women in the Washington State Legislature
Newspapers - Moments in History
Links to Newspapers in Washington
Resources for You
Postmarked Washington
Primarily Washington
Washington State Book Awards
Librarian Certification
Washington Librarian Certification FAQ
Institutional Library Services Wishlist
Washington Center for the Book
Resources for Libraries
First Tuesdays: Continuing Education
Library Development
Contacts by Name
Technology
Children's Internet Protection Act
Children's Internet Protection Act: Questions and Answers
Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) and Filtering
E-Rate Information for Public Libraries
Technology Services
Training
Training Calendar
Training and Certification Resources
Trustee Support
Resources & Training for Public Library Staff - Washington State Library - WA Secretary of State
Resources & Training for School Library Staff
LSTA Background
Publications
Previous Publications (1999 - 2022)
Washington Digital Library Consortium
LinkedIn Learning
Northstar
Projects
Advantages of Washington Group Services
All Aboard for Kindergarten
Check Out Washington
Data Consultation
Digital Inclusion Resource Collection
Early Learning Support
Open Data - Library
Statewide Projects and Initiatives
Teacher-Librarian Common Core Cadre (TLC
Washington Group Services News
Washington OCLC Group Services Libraries
Washington OCLC Group Services
Washington Public Libraries and the K-20 Network
Washington State's Summer Reading Program
Youth Services
Circulating STEAM Program Kits
Library Services for School-Age Youth
Library Services for Teens
Subscribe to the Library Newsletter
Grants for Libraries
Library Council
Professional Development and Training
All Resources for Libraries
AskWA
Workforce Development
Email Lists
Washington State Public Library Policies
WA Talking Book & Braille Library
Statewide Programs
Address Confidentiality Program (ACP)
About Us
Do I Qualify?
Application Process
Is the ACP appropriate for me?
Participants
Owning a Business. Nonprofit, or Charity.
Participant Forms
Participant Responsibilities
Purchasing a Home
Survivor Resources
Updating ACP Information
Using Your Substitute Address
Voter Registration - ACP
Advocates
Agencies and Businesses
Civic Engagement Program (CEP)
Combined Fund Drive (CFD)
Legacy Washington
Global War on Terrorism Memorial
Medals of Merit & Valor
Educational Resources: Learn with OSOS
Simply Washington
State Flag
State Seal
Buy Books and Flags
Washington State Productivity Board
About the Productivity Board
Productivity Board Awards
Productivity Board Programs
Submit an Idea