Library Internet and Wireless Policy
The Liberty Municipal Library offers free public computer access to the Internet to meet the information needs of our patrons. Public access computers are provided and wireless Internet access is provided for patrons with portable devices.
The Internet offers access to many sources of valuable information, but users must keep in mind that not all sources are accurate, complete or current. The Internet enables access to materials that may be offensive, disturbing and/or illegal. Library computer users are responsible for their use of the service and for the evaluation of the information accessed.
The Internet may contain material that is inappropriate for viewing by children, and the restriction of a child’s access to the Internet is the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian. Children under the age of twelve must have a parent supervising their Internet sessions. Parents will determine if their child age twelve through seventeen will have unlimited access. The library’s computer access is filtered, but filters do not remove all potentially objectionable material found on the Internet and parents are encouraged to guide their children’s use of the Internet.
In compliance with the June 2003 CIPA ruling (02-361) by the Supreme Court, unfiltered access to the Internet is made available to adults requesting such access on a per session basis. Unfiltered access is not available for anyone under the age of 18. Adults 18 or older who need unfiltered access for any lawful purpose may request it from a staff member.
The library does filter Internet access for both minors and adults to certain visual depictions that are: (a) obscene (as defined in section 1460 of title 18, United States Code); or (b) child pornography (as defined in section 2256 of title 18, United States Code), with respect to use of computers with Internet access by minors; or (c) harmful to minors.
While patrons are generally free to access whatever Internet sites they wish, the library must also respect the rights of other patrons not to be inadvertently exposed to materials and images they may find personally offensive. The library reserves the right to end an Internet session at any time if it is creating a disturbance.
Copyright law (Title 17, U.S. Code) prohibits the unauthorized reproduction or distribution of copyrighted materials, except as permitted by the principles of fair use. Users may not copy or distribute electronic materials without the explicit permission of the copyright holder. Any responsibility for any consequences of copyright infringement lies with the user; the library expressly disclaims any liability or responsibility resulting from such use.
Rules and Restrictions:
Computer use will be managed in a manner consistent with the Liberty Municipal Library’s Code of Conduct and disruptive behavior policies. Internet access is a privilege, not a right. The following rules apply:
1. Prospective users of Internet access computers are required to sign an Acceptable Use Agreement.
Three Acceptable Use Agreements are available:
a. Adults with unrestricted access.
b. A child requiring a signed parental permission agreement and
parental supervision.
c. A child, age 12 through 17, requiring a signed parental permission
agreement, but who can use the computers unattended.
2. Patrons will be issued a computer use card which must be presented in order to use the computers. Patrons may not use someone else’s computer card.
3. Internet access computers are available on a first come, first served basis. If others are waiting, a time limit of thirty minutes will be imposed on users. Use of the computers will be terminated 15 minutes before closing with no exceptions.
4. Files and software may not be downloaded to library computer hard drives.
5. Copies may be printed for 15 cents each for black and white and 50 cents each for color. Patrons are responsible for all printouts.
6. Computers may be used for legal purposes only. Patrons are prohibited from using any library computer for any illegal or criminal purpose.
7. Computer users may not:
a. Deliberately crash any library computer, damage equipment or
software, or attempt to degrade system performance.
b. Alter software configurations or add files or software to the network.
c. Use computers to gain access to the library’s network.
d. Violate copyright laws or software licensing agreements.
e. Use obscene language, display or send obscene or disruptive
messages, files or images, or engage in any activity which is
deliberately and maliciously offensive, libelous, or slanderous, insulting
or attacking in nature.
8. The signature on an Acceptable Use Agreement card is legally binding and indicates that the party who signed the card has read the terms and conditions of this policy and understands its significance. The parent or legal guardian is liable for any damage done to an Internet computer’s hardware or software and for any illegal or unethical acts performed through the library’s system.
9. This Internet policy for patron access is subject to revision at any time. All computer users must abide by the current policy in place.
Internet Policy approved by Liberty Municipal Library Board on October 19, 2000.
Wireless Internet Access:
The library provides free, unsecured wireless Internet access for public use. The library does not provide technical support for privately owned personal wireless devices. Security for personal devices rests solely with the owner of the device. Personal use of the library’s public wireless access will conform with policies regulating other types of public Internet access provided by the library.
Available power outlets may be used wherever the cord does not present a tripping hazard or block access for patrons or staff. Chairs or tables may not be moved to electrical outlets.
Computer Assistance Policy
The staff of the Liberty Municipal Library will assist library users in getting started on the Internet. However, the library cannot guarantee that Internet-trained staff will be available to assist users at all times the library is open. Internet users should have a minimal level of computer experience and be able to use a mouse.
Staff members are not able to offer extensive explanations about personal computer use or provide in-depth training. Staff cannot assist users in searching through the many sites available on the Internet. Time permitting, staff will try to answer specific questions about the Internet and offer suggestions for effective searching.
Approved by the Liberty Municipal Library Board on April 21, 2005