Internet Access Policy

The Alfred Dickey Public Library offers access to information resources on the Internet in response to advances in technology and to the changing information needs of the community. Internet access is one component of the Library's goal to meet the informational and educational needs of library users involved in both formal and informal learning activities. In keeping with our mission the Alfred Dickey Public Library provides free access to these materials to everyone in the community for purposes of education, information, research or recreation.

The Internet is a worldwide computer network that provides easy access to a wealth of information services beyond traditional collections. Not all Internet sources provide accurate, complete, or current information, and some may be offensive. The Internet is a rapidly changing environment. The Library is committed to promoting a safe and healthy environment. The Library strives to provide its patrons and staff with an environment that is free from harassment, including sexual harassment, and prohibits the display of obscene material, child pornography and material that is harmful to minors. Users are responsible for determining that the information they access is acceptable, reliable, and suitable to their needs.

The Library by nature opposes censorship of ideas and materials and relies on good judgment in selecting material. The nature of the Internet prohibits that selection process. The Library employs filtering software in an attempt to block access to sites that are illegal and to sites that some patrons find offensive. Patrons are advised that filters are not perfect and often fail to block sites that some find objectionable while denying access to others that are inoffensive and useful.

Responsibilities of users

All users of the Internet are expected to use these resources in a responsible manner, consistent with the educational and informational purposes for which they are provided, and to follow the Library's rules and regulations.

By using an Internet workstation at the library you agree to the following guidelines:

• As is true of other Library resources any use of the Library's Internet connection for illegal, inappropriate, or obscene purposes or in support of such activities is prohibited.



• The Library affirms the right and responsibility of parents to determine and monitor their children's use of library materials and resources. Restriction of a child's access to the Internet is the responsibility of the parent or guardian.



• Library staff is available to assist you in your use of these resources, but may not be familiar with every application you might wish to use. Time permitting, staff will attempt to answer specific questions about the Internet and offer suggestions for effective searching.



• Respect the privacy of others using public access workstations by not interfering with their use.



• Use of the computers will be on a first come, first serve basis. There is a 30-minute time limit. After your 30-minutes are up you may sign up again and wait for the next available computer.



• Access to chat or discussion groups are not authorized.

While the library endeavors to provide access to information of the highest quality, the library specifically disclaims any warranty as to the information's accuracy, timeliness, usefulness or fitness for a particular purpose.

The library shall have no liability for direct, indirect or consequential damages related to the use of information accessed through the library's Internet service or for damages related to the operation of, or failure of, the filtering software, or for its circumvention by users.

The availability of information via the library's Internet service does not constitute endorsement of the content of that information by the library.

Since software and information downloaded from any source, including the Internet, may contain computer viruses, users are advised to utilize virus-checking software on their computers.

The library is not responsible for damage to users' disks or computers or for any loss of data, damage or liability that may occur from use of the library's computers.

The Copyright Law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the reproduction, distribution, public performance, and public display of copyrighted material. Responsibility for possible copyright infringement lies solely with the user and the Library disclaims any responsibility or liability resulting there from.

Display of sexually suggestive objects or pictures may be in violation of Federal and State obscenity laws.

The Library provides free access to the Internet in response to its mission. Misuse of Internet access will result in the loss of computer privileges for the user. Library staff reserves the right to monitor use of the Internet to ensure compliance with this policy. Library staff will intervene to prohibit any inappropriate behavior and may ask users to remove themselves from library equipment if they observe any behavior that they determine to be in conflict with this policy. Further, if the behavior continues, library staff may instruct the user to leave the library. Police may be called for failure to leave the premises when instructed or to investigate possible illegal behavior.