Internet Use Policy

Introduction

This policy applies to use of the Internet via computer by the public at the Black Creek Village Library.

The Black Creek Village Library makes information available in a variety of formats, including print, audiovisual and electronic access. Access to the Internet at the library is made available to people of the Black Creek area exclusively for educational and information purposes.

The Internet is an unregulated medium. If offers access to material that is personally, professionally and culturally beneficial to persons of all ages. However, it also enables access to some materials that may be offensive and/or illegal. The library does not monitor and has no control over the information accessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its content. The library assumes no responsibility for the quality, accuracy, etc. of any Internet resource. Internet users should be aware that not all information found on the Internet is accurate or current.

Parents and legal guardians who are concerned about their children’s use of the Internet are expected to provide guidance to their children and monitor their use of this resource as they would other materials in the library. Parents are advised, but not required, to accompany children using the Internet at the library, in order to monitor the content of the information to which their children are exposed.

Patron use of the Internet:

• Internet access is via the world wide web.
• There is no charge for using the Internet at the library.
• There is a 25 cent per page printing charge.
• Copying or downloading is to be done to floppy or disc which can be purchased at the library for $1.00. Personal flash drives may be used.

Eligibility:

• Internet users must present a valid library card or photo ID.
• Persons who are under 18 years of age are required to have written permission from their parent or legal guardian on file at the library.

Responsible & Ethical Use:

• The Internet resources are to be used for legal purposes only.
• All Internet users are required to observe copyright laws.
• Persons who use the Internet at the Library must respect the privacy of others by refraining from interfering with their use of a workstation.

Inappropriate Use:
Misuse or abuse of the computer or Internet access will result in suspension of Internet and computer privileges. some examples of misuse are:

1. Making any attempt to alter software configurations. (patron will be charged if service is required do to their attempt to do so)
2. Engaging in any activity which is unauthorized or illegal.
3. Engaging in loud and/or disruptive behavior.
4. Attempting to modify or gain access to files, passwords or data belonging to others, damaging or altering software components of any network or database.
5. Propagation of computer viruses
6. Use of personal software in library equipment.
7. Damaging the computer and/or its peripherals.
8. Any corruption of the computer’s files.
9. Receiving, sending, or displaying graphics which may reasonably be construed by Library staff as offensive to the public.

Procedures:

1. Sign-up at the library’s circulation desk is required. The library will hold the user’s library card during the time the person is at the workstation.
2. Registration by telephone is permitted, but only for the day of use, for data processing only and during the hours when the library is open.
3. Persons are limited to 30 minutes, with a 30 minute extension of time, if no one is waiting to use the computers.
4. Persons under 18 years of age will need Internet permission slips signed. Permission slips will be kept at the library’s circulation desk.
5. Library staff members can briefly assist persons using the public workstations, if time permits.

This policy is subject to change at the discretion of the Black Creek Village Library Board.