Patron Access to the Internet Policy

Revision as of 10:52, 30 October 2012

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.

Guidelines:

• All patrons who access the Internet on a Library computer must first acknowledge acceptance of the provisions of this policy.
• All patrons who access the Internet must present a Portsmouth Public Library borrower’s card or picture ID with age verification and sign the computer use log for each session.
• Patrons who use Library computers to access the Internet do so at their own risk. Patrons are advised to use caution when sending personal information such as name, address, social security number, or credit card information over the Internet.
• The library reserves the right to regulate the use of computers including the amount of time a computer may be used, printing restrictions and fees, etc.
• The library reserves the right to terminate an Internet session for any policy violation or misuse, or if the computer is unattended.

Children’s Use of the Internet:

• Patrons under the age of 18 who wish to use the Internet must have a parental consent form on file and a computer use sticker on their library cards.
• It is not possible for Library staff to monitor children. Parents and guardians are responsible for their children’s use of the Internet. Parents and children are encouraged to read Child Safety on the Information Highway, jointly produced by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and the Interactive Services Association. This publication is available at the Public Service Desk.
• Children and young adults without parental permission to use the Internet may only use Library computers with Internet access disabled.

Restrictions:

• The use of OPLIN and the Internet to engage in any activity that constitutes violation of local, state, and/or federal laws is prohibited. Additionally, any use that violates the policies of the Portsmouth Public Library is prohibited.
• Patrons may not send, receive, or display text and/or graphics that may reasonably be construed as obscene by community standards.
• The Library’s computers 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.
• Computers in the Youth Services Department are reserved for the use of children or parents who are assisting their children.
• Computers may be used on a first-come, first–served basis, and cannot be reserved.
• No more than two people may be at a Library Computer at any time. Only the person who is signed up may access the keyboard, mouse and headphones.
• Any behavior that disturbs other patrons is prohibited. Patrons must observe the Library’s policy on Behavior and Conduct on Library Property.
• 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 media such as 3 ½” diskettes or Zip disks only. *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 files, passwords, data, software, or any network or database.

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 information or personal accounts including email, chat rooms, buying or selling, etc.
• 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, ext. 204 to inquire about training or accommodations for disabilities.

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 Portsmouth Public Library 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, cause thereby or arising there from. In no event shall the Portsmouth Public Library 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 Portsmouth Public Library or OPLIN is advised of the possibility of such damages.