Computer/Internet Use Policy

The Blanchester Public Library provides free public access to the Internet in accordance with our mission to make accessible the broadest possible range of information. The Internet offers a wealth of educational, recreational and cultural information for Library users, but because it is an unregulated medium, the Library cannot control and is not responsible for the content or accuracy of information accessed over the Internet.

The Library uses filtering software to block access to some Internet sites. No filtering system is completely effective in blocking access to material that may be deemed illegal or inappropriate for a library setting, so any further restriction of a minor’s access to the Internet is the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian. Adults (ages 18 or older) may bypass the filter by asking a Library staff member to disable the filter. Minors may request to have the filter disabled for bona fide research or other lawful uses.

Library staff cannot be held responsible for supervising minors while they are using the Internet; parents or legal guardians of minor children are responsible for the child’s use of the Internet at the library. Minors should be urged to follow basic safety guidelines when using the Internet: never give out personal information, never arrange to meet someone, and never respond to messages that are threatening or suggestive, remembering that people online may not be who they say they are.

Users may not use computer sessions in a manner that is deliberately offensive or creates a hostile or intimidating environment.

Usage Guidelines

  • Use of the Internet computers is on a "first come, first served" basis. Patrons are required to sign up to use a computer. Signup information is used only for statistical purposes; no record is kept connecting users to web sites visited.
  • The Library does not release information on the use of the Internet by Library users except as required by law.
  • Adults do not need a library card to use a computer. Minors must receive signed permission from their parent or legal guardian to have Internet access. The Library does have computers available without Internet access for those who do not have Internet privileges.
  • Patrons' computer privileges will be suspended if the fines/fees on their account are over $20 or materials are owed.Minors may only use the computers in the Children’s Department. Adults may not use those computers unless they are with a child. The Library may limit the amount of time of individual user sessions on the computer and may charge a fee for printing.
  • Due mainly to space limitations, no more than two patrons may share one computer station unless receiving approval from Library staff.
  • The Library will not be held liable for damages to personal data and removable media. Despite the Library's attempt to protect users from viruses, please be advised that complete protection is not possible.
  • The user agrees to hold the Library harmless from any claims, losses, damages, obligations, or liabilities relating to the use of information obtained via Library computers.
  • Only authorized Library employees are permitted to install software on library computers. Downloading of files from public access computers may be done on removable media only. Diskettes may be purchased at the Library for a minimal charge.
  • Use of any computer is for legal purposes only. Use of the workstation for any illegal purposes including software piracy and copyright violations is not permitted.
  • Use of any library computer for any activity that is deliberately offensive, or creates an intimidating or hostile environment is prohibited.
  • Use of any library computer for unsolicited advertising, chain letters, spreading of viruses and/or any other practice that interferes with the use by others is prohibited.
  • Any efforts to bypass the security of the Library's computer network, hacking, and/or other misuse of the Library's Internet computers is prohibited, and users will be financially responsible for any malicious damage to hardware or software.
  • The Copyright Law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the distribution, adaptation, reproduction, public performance, and public display of copyrighted material. The user is solely responsible for any possible infringement of copyright laws; the library disclaims any responsibility or liability that results from any such action.

Failure to comply with this policy may result in loss of computer access and in extreme or repeated cases may result in the loss of other library privileges. Illegal acts may be subject to prosecution by local, state, or federal authorities.

 

Approved by Board of Trustees 7/08