Patron Access to the Internet Policy

Latest revision as of 10:01, 4 February 2014

The Portsmouth Public Library provides public access to the Internet through the Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN).

Misuse or abuse of Library computers or Internet access may result in suspension of Internet access privileges including a one-week suspension for the first violation and permanent suspension for a second violation. Appeals regarding these suspensions may be made to the PPL Library Director or the Library Board of Trustees.

Guidelines:

• All patrons who access the Internet on a Library computer or device must first acknowledge acceptance of the provisions of this policy. Patrons accessing the library’s network on personal devices are also subject to this policy.
• Adult patrons with a current PPL borrower’s account, and juveniles with a current PPL account with internet privilege granted, may use PPL’s internet computers. Adult patrons may also access the library internet computers by presenting a picture ID with age verification.
• PPL’s Internet computers and devices are neither private nor secure. Patrons who access the Internet do so at their own risk, and are advised to use caution when sending any personal information such as name, address, social security number, or financial information over the Internet.
• The library reserves the right to regulate and administer services provided including time limits, printing restrictions and fees, etc.
• Patrons are responsible for any fees incurred during the use of library services.
• The library reserves the right to terminate privileges for any policy violation or misuse, or if the computer or device is unattended.

Children’s Use of the Internet:

• Patrons under the age of 18 who wish to use the Internet must have a current record of consent on file.
• Responsible parties may access the Internet on behalf of a child who does not have consent, but must remain with the child to supervise and monitor use of the Internet.
• It is not possible for library staff to supervise or monitor children, or to be in any way responsible for children’s use of the Internet. Responsible parties and children are encouraged to read Child Safety on the Information Highway (www.safekids.com), or similar information regarding the risks of being online.
• Children and young adults without consent to use the Internet may only use Library computers or devices without open Internet access.

Restrictions:

• Use of the library’s services to engage in any activity that constitutes violation of local, state, and/or federal laws is prohibited. Additionally, any use that violates any policy of the PPL is prohibited.
• Patrons may not send, receive, or display text and/or graphics on a library device, or on library property, that may reasonably be construed as obscene by community standards.
• The library’s services may be used for educational, informational, and recreational purposes only; not for unauthorized, illegal, or unethical purposes.
• Internet access is available only during normal Library hours, subject to periodic maintenance or other unforeseen circumstances.
• Internet services in the Youth Services Department are reserved for the use of children and responsible parties who are assisting their children.
• Services are provided on a first-come, first–served basis, and cannot be reserved.
• Library staff may restrict the number of people allowed at a computer or service area.
• Any behavior that disturbs other patrons is prohibited. Patrons must observe the Library’s policy on Behavior and Conduct on Library Property, and respect the privacy and property of others.
• Patrons may not modify or change settings, turn off, or reboot public computers.
• Software may not be installed on Library Computers. Files may be downloaded or saved to removable storage. The library is not responsible for any damage to personal media.
• Patrons may not misrepresent themselves as another user or attempt to gain unauthorized access to any PPL service.

Library Staff Assistance:

• As time allows, Library staff will be happy to help patrons access information through the Internet, and assist with use of computer equipment. However, Library staff cannot assist patrons with anything involving personal or financial information .
• It is the patron’s responsibility to learn to use any software or website s/he wishes to access.
• Patrons with special needs should contact the Technology Center at 354-5688 to inquire about training or adaptive/accessibility resources.

Disclaimer:

The Internet is unregulated, and information accessed through it may be inaccurate, inappropriate, or offensive. The library does not control information found on the Internet and, therefore, cannot be held responsible for its content. Internet content may not always be available due to internal technical problems or problems elsewhere on the Internet.

All users of this service agree to hold the PPL and OPLIN harmless from any and all claims, losses, damages, obligations, or liabilities, directly or indirectly in relation to the use of OPLIN and the Internet, caused thereby or arising there from. In no event shall the PPL or OPLIN have any liability for lost profits or for indirect, special, punitive, or consequential damages or any liability to any third party, even if the PPL or OPLIN is advised of the possibility of such damages.