Computer and Internet Usage Policy
Adopted by the Board Of Trustees – November 10, 2010
The Demary Memorial Library provides public computer access to the Internet as an informational, educational, and recreational resource. The Internet enables library patrons to access information beyond that contained in the building. This library does not monitor materials that are on Internet sites and cannot be held responsible for content.
DeMary Memorial Library patrons may have access to the Internet station after reading and agreeing to abide by this Computer and Internet Usage Policy and signing the Computer/Internet Card. A person living outside the city limits can obtain a Computer/Internet Card for the current fee or pay a fee for a single 30 minute time slot which includes additional time slots, if available the same day, at no extra charge. Alternatively, patrons living outside the city limit could purchase a library card for themselves of their family which includes internet access. Anyone under the age of 18 must have his or her guardian sign the cards also.
The procedure for using the Internet computers:
- Sign in at the front desk.
- The time limit is 30 minutes on a first come, first served basis that can be extended if no one is waiting.
- No reservations are taken for computer usage except for class time provided by the library staff.
User Responsibilities
- You may only send or receive e-mail using your own non-library email account.
- You may not use personal software on library computers. The library is not responsible for any loss or damage to any computer disks, storage devices, files, or data.
- You may download to an external storage device such as flash drives only. You may not save to a compact disc. Download to a library computer’s hard drive is prohibited.
- Printers are available for patron use. There is a printing charge.
- You may take no action that improperly restricts or inhibits other patrons from using and enjoying the Internet and other library resources within state and federal laws. Such behavior is strictly prohibited and will result in loss of computer privileges. Unacceptable uses may include, but are not limited to:
- Harassment of other library patrons, computer users, or library staff.
- Unauthorized access to files, data, or passwords.
- Access of materials which are abusive, obscene, sexually oriented, racially offensive, or violate or support violation of state, federal, or local law.
- Libeling or slandering others.
- Disruption or unauthorized monitoring of electronic communications.
- Transmission of material, information, or software in violation of local, state, or federal laws is prohibited.
- Unauthorized copying of copyrighted materials.
- Violations, or attempts to violate, computer system security and/or software license agreements.
- Any malicious attempt to harm or destroy the hardware or software on the system, or any of the other agencies or networks connected to the Internet is prohibited. This may include, but is not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses.
- Incurring any costs to the DeMary Memorial Library.
- Payment for all computer related items or services provided by the library must be rendered immediately.
While respecting individual users’ rights to privacy, library staff reserves the right to monitor use of the computers to ensure compliance with this policy. Staff will ask users to remove themselves from the area if they observe any behavior that they judge to be in conflict with this policy and may revoke computer access privileges.
The library may deny or restrict use by individuals who violate any part of this policy. Any patron who has had access or use of the library’s computer restricted or denied may appeal any such decision in writing to the library Board of Trustees. The Board, within the time frame of two meetings, will address any such appeal. Minors appealing any such decision must be represented by a parent or guardian.
The library urges parents to become familiar with the Internet and discuss with their children appropriate use of the Internet.
This policy is subject to change. Adequate notice will be given in writing and prominently displayed.