A CIPA internet filter for public libraries

Libraries that take E-Rate discounts for internet access need a filter on every computer, including the ones adults use. Here's how to meet that without frustrating patrons.

Updated November 12, 2026·2 min read

Short answer

Create a free Sheepdog Filter library account (choose Library at /schools/signup). Point your public network's router or firewall DNS at your Sheepdog Filter address. Adult content is locked on for public Wi‑Fi and computers, as CIPA asks. Staff devices use the Staff setting, and you can allow a site for an adult's research in one tap. Print the CIPA report each funding year.

What CIPA asks of libraries

The Children's Internet Protection Act applies to libraries that receive E-Rate discounts for internet access or internal connections. It asks for a technology protection measure that blocks images that are obscene, child sexual abuse material, and (for minors) harmful to minors, on every computer with internet access, including staff and patron machines. It also asks for an Internet safety policy adopted after a public hearing. Adults may ask for the filter to be lifted for bona fide research or other lawful purposes. See CIPA, explained.

How Sheepdog Filter fits

  • Public Wi‑Fi is your patron network: adult content, scams, malware, gambling and VPN tricks blocked, with SafeSearch on. Adult content is locked on and can't be paused, so the protection can't quietly lapse.
  • Staff is a separate, lighter setting for library staff devices.
  • Allow in one tap: when an adult asks for a blocked site for research, add it to the always-allow list.
  • CIPA report: a dated, printable record of your filtering and the last 30 days of blocks, for your Form 486 or 479 files.

Games and social media stay open on library Wi‑Fi by default. Switch either off with one tap if you'd like.

Setup

  1. Go to /schools/signup and choose Library.
  2. On your dashboard, tap Set up next to Public Wi‑Fi while on the library network, and paste the DNS address into your router or firewall. The school network guide has the details for firewalls and managed networks.
  3. Put up the printable "Our public Wi‑Fi is filtered" sign, and open your CIPA report.

More than one branch? Tap Add a branch for each one with its own internet connection.

Sheepdog Filter

Filtering for schools, co-ops and libraries.

Adult content locked on, VPN tricks blocked, and a printable CIPA report for E-Rate. One setting on your router. Free to start.

Set up ours, free

Common questions

Can an adult patron ask for a site to be unblocked?

Yes. CIPA allows libraries to lift the filter for adults doing bona fide research or other lawful purposes. Add the site to the always-allow list in one tap.

Do we need the Internet safety policy too?

Yes. CIPA asks you to adopt one after a public hearing. Our policy template is a starting point you can adapt.

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