Computer and Internet Use Policy
The Internet, as an information resource, enables the library to provide information beyond the confines of its own collection. It allows access to ideas, information and commentary from around the globe. In introducing the Internet as an information resource, the library's goal is to enhance its existing collection in size and depth and as a public access agency, give opportunity to anyone who wishes to participate in navigating the Internet.
Harborfields Public Library’s control over content accessed by patrons using the Internet is governed by federal and state law. In compliance with the Federal Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA), Harborfields Public Library has installed filters on all library computers with the intent of preventing access to material that is obscene, child pornographic or harmful to minors. The Library provides access to Internet resources equally to all library users and upholds and affirms the right of each individual to have access to constitutionally protected material.
As with all library materials, parents, guardians, or caregivers, not Harborfields Public Library staff, are responsible for information selected and/or accessed by their children. The Library strongly encourages parents or legal guardians to supervise their children's Internet use and to provide them with guidelines about acceptable use.
While the Internet greatly expands access to information, it contains information that may be inaccurate, outdated, or offensive. Patron use of the Internet carries with it the responsibility to evaluate the quality of the information accessed. In order to find accurate and reliable online information, Harborfields Public Library staff is available to help patrons navigate, identify, access and evaluate resources on the Internet.
GUIDELINES FOR COMPUTER AND INTERNET USE
Use of any library computer to display, print, transmit or distribute any obscene or sexually explicit material or material harmful to minors is prohibited.
Use of the Library's computers for commercial purposes is prohibited including but not limited to unsolicited advertising.
Any use of the Library's computers for unlawful purposes is prohibited.
Users may not copy or illegally download commercial software and must agree to abide by copyright law.
Creation or installation of any virus, tracking software or destructive program is prohibited.
Because of potential damage from illicit computer viruses, the use of personal software on library equipment is prohibited.
Patrons are not permitted to change, add, or remove hardware or software. Tampering or altering library equipment is prohibited. Attempting to circumvent security or gain unauthorized access to any host, network, or computer located in the library or elsewhere is not permitted.
Patrons may not interfere with normal service of any host, network, or computer by intentionally crashing, disrupting, or overloading its operation.
The Library staff does not provide individual computer instruction and presumes basic computer competence on the part of the patron.
Library staff is not able to provide technical assistance and cannot guarantee that you will be able to make a wireless connection.
Due to the nature of wireless technology, the library’s wireless network is not secure. Information sent from or to your laptop can be captured by anyone else with a wireless device and the appropriate software.
The library assumes no responsibility for the safety of equipment or for laptop configurations, security, or data resulting from connection to the library’s network.
Library computers are intended to be used by one person at a time. If necessary, two people may sit together and work on the same computer as long as they do not disturb the work of others.
Prior to using any library computer to access the Internet all users shall be required to indicate their agreement to adhere to this policy.
Misuse of this service, including accessing information in violation of any federal, state or local regulation or violating the privacy of other library user, will result in loss of user privileges.
