Computer and Internet Use Policy

Introduction

 Throughout its history, the Eureka Public Library has made information available in a variety of formats, from print to audiovisual materials. In order to provide patrons with the best and most current information available, the Library includes on-line electronic materials as part of the services provided to patrons.

Disclaimer

These resources contain a wealth of valuable information, however, users should be aware that some information may be inaccurate, outdated or offensive. The Library does not endorse the viewpoints or vouch for the accuracy of information obtained online. In addition, the Library does not select or edit Internet content. Use of these resources carries a responsibility to evaluate the quality of the information accessed. Parents and guardians, not the Library, are responsible for the use of these resources by children in their custody. The Library assumes no responsibility for any damages, direct or indirect, arising from use of electronic resources.

Ethical Use

All users of electronic information resources such as the Internet are expected to use these resources in a responsible manner, consistent with the educational and informational purposes for which they are provided. To Assure appropriate use of library resources, electronic access and library equiptment may not be used for the following:

• Purposes which violate applicable U.S. or state laws
• Destruction of or damage to equipment, software, or data that belongs to the Library

• Disruption or interference of network users or services. Such interference or disruption includes, but is not limited to: distribution of unsolicited advertising; harassment, libeling, or slandering of others; propagation of computer worms or viruses.

• Sending, receiving, or displaying text or graphics which may reasonably be construed as obscene by community standards.
• Violating licensing and payment agreements between EPLD and network/database providers.

Limitations

The Library reserves the right to require all prospective users to attend an orientation session as a condition for access to the Library Internet stations. Orientation will include training in the use of software and hardware, and guidelines for the responsible care of library equipment.

The library staff will assist patrons with Internet use as time permits, but cannot offer personal instruction unless prior arrangements have been made. Reference staff are  available to help patrons locate books, periodicals and videos about the internet. If additional help is desired, patrons will need to make an appointment with library staff for training on the computers. These appointments will need to be arranged for a time when staff is available, and cannot happen unless pre-arranged. Workshops might be offered as well for computer help in a group setting. Please ask at the desk for information.

The Library does not directly provide electronic mail or access to news and discussion groups. However, free e-mail accounts are available on the Internet.

Sessions will be limited to 30 minutes if there is a waiting list for usage. A session may be of longer duration unless a staff member deems it necessary to limit usage based on available computers.

All patrons must sign in at the front desk before computer use and sign out when finished. The Library reserves the right to assign users to specific computers, and switching machines without prior approval from the front desk is not permitted. All Internet users must have on file a signed Internet Agreement before use.

Clarifications

The signature on the Internet Use Registration is legally binding and indicates the party who signed has read the terms and conditions of this policy and understands their significance.

Library Printer Fees

Users should ask for and pay for print-outs at the front desk and are responsible for pages unintentionally printed from their machines. Too reduce waste, patrons are encouraged to use the "print preview" features incorporated into almost all of the Library's software programs.

Violations of the Guidelines

Internet use will be managed in a manner consistent with the Library's Rules of Conduct which is posted in the Library. Users violating these guidelines will be issued a warning, advised of applicable Library policy, and asked to comply. Users who continue to violate these guidelines after one warning will be restricted from using the Library's online services on that occasion. The Library reserves the right to prohibit violators from future access and use of online services. Illegal acts may subject users to prosecution by local, state and federal authorities.

Library Patrons' Rights

Library patrons have certain rights with respect to the use of electronic information networks such as the Internet:

• Library patrons have the right to confidentiality and privacy in the use of electronic information networks to the extent possible given certain constraints such as proximity of other patrons and staff in a public setting.
• Library patrons have the right to equitable access to electronic resources.
• Library patrons have the right to access and read all library service policies and discuss questions with appropriate library staff.

User Confidentiality Advisory

Because library equipment to access electronic resources is located within plain sight and to assure the library's right to determine appropriateness of usage, patron confidentiality in accessing materials may be compromised. In addition, the Library uses electronic monitoring software to verify compliance with the terms of this agreement. If an infraction is suspect, a snapshot of the user's screen can be taken from the circulation terminal as grounds for access termination and/or to forward to the proper authorities.