COMPUTER RESOURCES ACCESS AND INTERNET SAFETY POLICY
The Library’s computer system provides access to word processors, online databases, and to the Internet. The Internet permits information, ideas, and commentary to be obtained from around the world in a matter of seconds. Much of this material is useful and enriching. However, since the Internet is unregulated, it enables access to some material that may be disturbing, offensive, and/or illegal.
It is the policy of the Richland Public Library to comply with the federal Children’s Internet Protection Act and the Neighborhood Children’s Internet Protection Act.
Loading personal software or storing any files on Library equipment will result in forfeiture of Internet privileges. Failure to follow the directions of library staff, to abide by this policy, or to use the computer stations responsibly will result in forfeiture of computer privileges. Only the Library Manager has authority to reinstate Internet privileges.
In addition to the requirements of the law, library policy also requires the following.
- It is the responsibility of individual patrons to use the equipment in a way that furthers the roles and resources of the Richland Public Library.
- Richland residents must have a valid library card to use the Internet. Possession of a current Richland Public Library Card signifies awareness of the Computer Resources Access and Internet Safety Policy and complete acceptance of the policies.
- By default all library Internet computers will be filtered against and may not be used to access the following site categories: chat rooms, criminal skills, gambling, personals/dating, obscene/tasteless or pornographic materials, or “R” rated dating services. Individuals 17 years of age and older will be able to choose unfiltered Internet access. While library computers offer filtered access, the library cannot guarantee the complete effectiveness of the filter.
- Upon application for a library card, parents who wish that their child have access to the Internet must notify the circulation desk staff.
- Library Internet computers shall not be used to send or receive material that is threatening or harassing. The library network shall not be used to distribute unsolicited advertising, propagate computer worms or viruses, or make unauthorized entry into any other machine accessible via the network.
- Library computer network shall not be used for unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal information regarding minors.
- Library computer network shall not be used for any purposes that violate US or state laws.
- A guest user, i.e., an individual without a current Richland Public Library card, must show I.D. and fill out a Guest User pass.
- Use of the library computer network is free to both residents and non-residents. However, minimal charges will be assessed to recover any costs incurred in Internet usage by Library patrons.
- Internet stations will be located in areas that are easily monitored by Library staff.
- Patrons will be limited to two (2) hours of Internet access per day. The library reserves the right to schedule computers for public/staff use.
- Users of Internet computers must log on using their own library card number. Use of another person’s card is prohibited.
- No software may be installed on any Library computer, except by the system administrator. Users must respect all copyright and licensing agreements pertaining to software files, or other resources available via the Library’s computers.
- Only one person will use an Internet station at a time. Any EXCEPTIONS will be made at the reference librarian’s discretion. When anyone under 17 is using the Internet the filter shall be activated.
- Patrons owing library fines or fees over $10.00, or having overdue materials, cannot use the Internet stations.
- Computer use must be consistent with acceptable Library conduct
- The library will provide an electronic link for patrons to contact staff by e-mail with any questions, problems, or concerns regarding use of the Internet or accessibility to any Internet site.
- Library computer equipment shall be used for purposes only as permitted under the Computer Resources Access and Internet Safety Policy; patrons shall not perform any act that damages or disables computer hardware or software.
- The child’s parent or guardian must approve use of the library wireless network by any patron under the age of 17.
- Use of the library wireless network to access any pornographic site is prohibited unless the patron’s computer is shielded from public view.
Richland Public Library
Board of Trustees
Adopted: December 7, 1995
Amended: July 6, 2000
Revised: April 4, 2002
Revised: Sept. 5, 2002
Revised: Sept. 9, 2004
INTERNET USERS AGREEMENT
I recognize that use of the Internet through the Richland Public Library is a privilege. I agree to abide by the following rules regulating use of the Internet, and understand that failure to observe them or failure to observe other library policies may result in a suspension of my use of the library's Internet access stations.
- I will not engage in any activity which: a) seeks to gain unauthorized access to the resources of the library or Internet databases, b) disrupts the intended use of the Internet, c) wastes any resources through such actions, d) violates, compromises, or destroys the integrity of any library computer based information, e) compromises the privacy of any user, f) is illegal.
- I will not use this service for unlawful purposes. I understand that transmission of any material in violation of any U.S. or state regulation is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to: copyrighted material, threatening or obscene material, or any other protected material.
- I agree to hold harmless the Richland Public Library for any and all claims of any nature arising from my use or inability to use this service.
- Knowing that the Internet is currently an unregulated resource, I understand I use information obtained via this service at my own risk, that the library offers no guarantees as to accuracy or validity of information obtained through the Internet.
- I will observe all copyright laws which might apply to files, software or other resources downloaded from the Internet.
- I agree to not engage in any activity that can be construed to be harmful to minors in any way.
- I will observe all policies and rules governing the use of the Internet and other library hardware and software as established by the Richland Public Library Board.
- I will take proper care of all equipment, and will report any problem with the hardware or software immediately to the library staff.
- I understand that failure to follow policies and rules relating to Internet
use will result in loss of my library Internet privileges.
Richland Public Library
Board of Trustees
Adopted: January 8, 2004
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Updated January 10, 2005
