Libraries

As a librarian, you help patrons tap into the library’s resources, you may also assist them access onsite computers and the Internet—and become an appreciated source of information on how to be safe and secure online.

A great place to start is by participating in National Cyber Security Awareness Month, held in October 2012. Even if you have just one hour to devote to this nationwide observance or decide to make a larger time commitment, you’ll be sure to find at least one activity from the list below that can make a big difference!

What You Can Do…

 …in less than One Hour:

• Put the NCSAM banner on your library Web site and link to the STOP. THINK. CONNECT. tips and advice. (Download banner from http://www.staysafeonline.org/ncsam/promote-ncsam/and the tip sheet from http://staysafeonline.org/stop-think-connect/tips-and-advice.)   

 …in less than One Day:

• Become an NCSAM Champion. (Find the NCSAM Champion application form at http://www.staysafeonline.org/ncsam/champions/.)

• Remind patrons who conduct library business online (for example, loan ebooks) to create long and strong passwords for their online library account. (Download more cybersecurity tips at http://staysafeonline.org/stay-safe-online)

…in less than One Week:

• Hold a brown bag lunch for employees to review your library’s computer security and acceptable use policies. Distribute the STOP. THINK. CONNECT. tips and advice to all library staff. (Download at http://staysafeonline.org/stop-think-connect/tips-and-advice.)   

…in less than One Month:

• Work with your IT staff to host a series of cybersecurity educational presentations for your patrons on topics such as securing technology at home, keeping kids safe online, online safety for seniors, cybersecurity for small business, and careers in cybersecurity.

• Review your library collection to be sure you have current books about online safety for kids and parents. Create a special display of these books in honor of the month.

…All Year Round:

• Keep your efforts going throughout the year by posting the STOP. THINK. CONNECT. tips and posters next to your library computers. (Download at http://staysafeonline.org/stop-think-connect.)   

• Review the library’s computer security policies and make sure they are up-to-date. Make sure all software is current and that computers are turned off when the library is closed.