MANUAL OF LIBRARY POLICIES

SUBJECT: Internet Access Policy

Resolution No: 210920-7

Internet Access Policy

The Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library considers the provision of access to electronic resources integral to its mission to meet the informational needs of the Stow and Munroe Falls population. The Library offers access to online or Internet information resources through Libraries Connect Ohio and other networks. It is the Library’s goal to provide access to these resources to all individuals and groups in the community.

Disclaimer

The Internet is a worldwide computer network which provides easy access to a massive body of information and opinion. Most of the information and resources available on the Internet expand the Library’s Information services beyond traditional collections.

The Library offers, through Libraries Connect Ohio, some databases which are specifically selected for their value to Library users. However, most of the information available on the Internet through the public access terminals is not generated by the Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library or Libraries Connect Ohio, and such information is not warranted by them to be accurate, authoritative, factual or complete. The availability of networked information via Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library does not constitute any endorsement or ratification of the information. Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library and network providers are not responsible for the content of networked information available.

The Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library seeks to preserve the confidentiality of patron records and privacy as to resources accessed. However, users should be aware that electronic transactions and files are not entirely secure and could possibly be accessed or made public by a third party.

All users of this service agree to hold the Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library and Libraries Connect Ohio harmless from any and all claims, losses, damages, obligations, or liabilities directly or indirectly relating to the use of the Internet, caused thereby or arising there from.

User Responsibilities

Users are responsible for determining that the information they access is acceptable, reliable, and suitable to their needs.

The parents or guardians must assume responsibility for their minor children’s use of the Internet.

Access to the Internet is to be used for educational, informational and recreational purposes. Use for unauthorized, illegal or unethical purposes is strictly prohibited. Users may not send, receive or display text or graphics which may reasonably be construed as obscene. Computer users who are in violation of our Library Internet Policy will receive an immediate suspension of their Internet privileges for the day. A second violation of our Internet Policy will result in permanent revocation of a patron’s Internet privileges.

Material should only be downloaded from the Library’s computers on removable media.

Users may not use their own software programs on the Library’s networked computers.

Users should respect the privacy of other users, and the security of other computer systems and databases.

Misuse of the Library’s computers, or of Internet access, will result in loss of use.

The Library is guided by a commitment to access information policies that provide appropriate protections to its patrons while being consistent with the Library’s longstanding commitment to the principles of free expression as set forth in the First Amendment to the United States Constitution.