C-1 Network Neutrality: The Debate Over the Internet Superhighway

Libraries serve users with on-site Internet access, as well as remote access to online catalogs, digital collections and other digital information obtained and created by our libraries. The ability of libraries to provide equitable access to the diverse content and innovations of the Internet could be at risk unless measures are taken to promote “network neutrality” to assure the continuation of an open and nondiscriminatory Internet. Without network neutrality, telecommunications companies will be able to charge higher premiums for faster Internet service, putting many libraries in the “slow lane” if they cannot afford the extra cost. The speakers will present their side of the debate, explaining why network neutrality regulation is needed or why it may do more harm than good. This program will highlight the issues surrounding network neutrality, and why law librarians have a stake in the debate.