At Senate Hearing, Librarians Seek Their Place on the Information Highway (April 19, 1994)
Flagg, Gordon. "At Senate Hearing, Librarians Seek Their Place on the Information Highway." American Libraries 25.6 (June 1994): 492, 608.

On April 19, 1994 a hearing was held by the Senate Subcommittee on Education, Arts and Humanities. At this hearing many librarians and representatives of ALA discussed the importance of including librarians in policy-making regarding the Information Super Highway. The government was called upon to financially support libraries so they can remain at the forefront of technological development.

The National Public Telecommunications Act of 1994 was introduced in 1994. This act specifically includes libraries in the task of joining individuals in all circumstances with the information super highway. Other entities included in this act are state and local governments, schools, and public broadcasters. The intent of Goals 2000: Educate America Act, signed by President Clinton earlier in 1994, will be furthered by the provisions of this act.

With the advent of the information highway, it is becoming increasingly important to keep information organized. The Internet contains such a vast store of information that providing access points for this information is critical. In order for the common, everyday Internet user to have full access to the World Wide Web and "information-bearing entities" found within, bibliographic control, otherwise referred to as information organization, must be provided.

Exon/Coats Amendment to the Telecommunications Act of 1995 would expand current law regarding indecency on telephone service to all telecommunications, which could reduce or stop access to email, discussion lists, and other services. Criminal penalties could result for constitutionally protected speech (first amendment), limiting what is available to adults on the basis of what is appropriate for minors. ALA based its opposition on Association policy #53.1, The Library Bill of Rights, which states that censorship should be challenged by libraries and "a person's right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views."