DRAFT REVISION

Purpose

To ensure appropriate use of Internet resources within the Library.

Policy

1. The Library provides workstations for free public access to the Internet as an informational, educational and recreational resource. Use of the Internet via the Library's network is also bound by this policy.

2. Use of electronic information resources, including the Internet, must be responsible and ethical, consistent with the purpose for which these resources is provided. This includes:

a. Using resources for educational, informational and recreational purposes only, not for unauthorized, illegal or unethical purposes.

b. Respecting the privacy of others by not misrepresenting oneself as another user; by not attempting to modify or gain access to files, passwords, or data belonging to others; by not seeking unauthorized access to any computer system, or damaging or altering components of any network or database.

c. Respecting the privacy of others by not interfering with their use.

d. Making only authorized copies of copyrighted or licensed software or data.

e. Not sending, receiving, or displaying text or graphics that may reasonably be construed by Library staff as offensive to the public. Websites acceptable in the adult department may not be acceptable in the children's section.

f. Not making unauthorized changes to the setup or configuration of Library software or hardware.

3. The Library assumes no responsibility for the use of the Internet by children. Subject to the above restrictions, it is the responsibility of the user (or the parent, guardian or caregiver) to determine what is appropriate. Library staff assumes that those under age 18 have parental permission to use Library resources, including the Internet.

4. The Library staff cannot control specific information on the Internet. Libraries do not vouch for or endorse either written material in their collections or electronic information. Selection policies that govern the Library's purchase of written materials may not apply to electronic resources.

5. Library staff may impose restrictions, such as time limits or types of use, on library equipment. Computers in the Children's Services area are generally available only to children in 8th grade or younger, to caregivers of children in the area, or to persons doing research involving children's materials.

6. While respecting individual users’ right to privacy, the Library staff reserves the right to monitor use of computer workstations to ensure compliance with this policy.

7. The Library staff may ask users to remove themselves from Library equipment if they observe behavior in conflict with this policy. Misuse or abuse of computers or Internet access may result in suspension of Library privileges.

--adopted by the Library Board of Trustees, September 13, 1999