Hello all,

Recently I was asked by a fellow librarian what resources in MeL speak to internet safety, especially for kids. What a timely question. With hacking, phishing, scamming, and all manner of mischievous and malicious online activity at an all-time high, I wanted to make sure that MeL was offering some resources that address this topic. Here’s what I can point out:

· MeL Database LearningExpress Library’s Computer Skills Center and School Center contain 11 different lessons on the internet – introduction, using web tools, surfing, etc.

· MeL Kids Gateway under Homework Help includes www.kids.gov which has a section on Online Safety that offers several resources including Protecting your information – Security Plaza from the FTC and Is It True? from the FCC.

· MeL Books & Literacy Gateway under Digital Literacy has several resources listed. GCF Learn Free, has online safety in general and for kids specifically. In the same section, www.OnGuardOnline.gov is also informative.

So, as Sergeant Phil on the TV show Hill Street Blues used to say, “Let’s be careful out there”. Michigan residents or Michigan library access only.

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Eunice

Eunice C. Borrelli

Michigan eLibrary Internet Librarian, Library of Michigan/Michigan Dept. of Education

702 W. Kalamazoo St., Lansing, MI 48909

Phone: 517-241-4996    Toll Free: 877-479-0021     Fax: 517-373-5700

Did you know most Michigan educator certificates expire June 30th of any given year? 

Educators can check expiration dates and renew certificates using the

Michigan Online Educator Certification System at www.michigan.gov/moecs.