Library Measures to Promote the Responsible Use of Computer Workstations
The Library actively promotes and safeguards responsible use of the Internet and of its computer workstations by the following:
- The Internet Access policy was adopted on 2/7/96 by the Library
Commission, and is available in the Library and from the main page of the
Library's web site.
- Children and adults will have separate workstations, dependent upon
available facilities.
- Children's Internet workstations feature a Children's page offering
a selection of sites and tools geared to the age, interests, and abilities
of children. The Library's Children's page and printed brochures provide
information and tips to children and parents on how to use Library
workstations and the Internet Branch productively and safely.
- Privacy screens are installed on all Internet workstations to protect
the privacy of users, and to reduce the likelihood that other Library
users will be distracted or disturbed by patrons using the Internet.
- Patrons will show valid ID to sign up to use a computer workstation.
- Library Internet workstations are not equipped with filters or
blocking software. This promotes full access to information by Library
users of all ages, and prevents the creation of a false sense of security
about what types of information and images can and cannot be accessed. No
available filter or blocking software is effective in blocking what some
might find objectionable, and all filters block access to much information
which many would find useful or important.
- Library staff will not assist users in the use of e-mail, chat
rooms, and other forms of personal communication. The Library places a higher
priority upon providing access to information than it does upon assisting
personal communication.
The Library does not provide individual E-mail accounts to patrons. - There are limitations on the amount of time a person can use the
workstations in order to make the workstations more accessible to all
potential users.
- Workstation use is limited to two persons per workstation to
reduce disturbing conversations and to discourage behavioral problems. Exceptions
may be made for families and for special circumstances, to be determined
by staff.
- Using the computer workstation constitutes an agreement by the user to
the terms set forth in this policy which is posted at all computer
workstations. Evidence that a patron has attempted to change the program
settings on the PC, has attempted to boot from a floppy, or has tried to
run their own software on the machine will result in the immediate loss of
privileges. The Library reserves the right to deny access to the Internet
workstations to any patron who has damaged the equipment through vandalism
or the use of software. Compensatory damages may be sought. Evidence
that a patron has performed or attempted to perform illegal activities
using the workstation will result in immediate loss of privileges.
- The Staff Internet Editorial Committee advises on the development of
policy and procedures and on the design and operation of the Library's web
site. Members are appointed by the Director.
- This policy will be implemented by the Public Computer Workstation Procedures
document which is reviewed and revised on an ongoing basis.
Other policies and procedures