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Computer and Internet Use and User Guidelines Policy
A. Policy: The Duncanville Public Library offers internet access and the programs
Word, Excel, and Power Point on 14 public use computers to further its mission
to meet the educational, informational, and cultural needs of its residents of all
ages. Use of the internet is also intended primarily as a reference tool for
research, information gathering, and for self-directed personal growth over
entertainment purposes such as game playing, chat rooms and group
discussion participation. Adult patrons may use any of the 14 computers; however computers A through E are designated for use by minors (17 and younger).
Because the internet is a global, unregulated entity and contains highly diverse
information, the library cannot control or monitor what is available nor does it
have control over the information contained. Therefore, patrons should
evaluate the content and validity of the information found, with print sources.
Additionally, because computer workstations are in a public building where
children are present the library takes a ZERO TOLERANCE stance towards
viewing pornography. Any patron found to be visiting such sites will LOSE their
computer privileges permanently. Therefore, by reading and signing off on
this policy, patrons agree to the conditions and rules set forth in this section.
1. U.S. Copyright Law (Title 17, U.S. Code) prohibits the unauthorized
reproduction or distribution of copyrighted materials. Therefore, any
copyright infringement lies with the user; the library expressly disclaims
any liability or responsibility arising from access to or use of information
obtained from the Internet.
2. Staff Limitations
The Library’s purpose in having computers for public use is to provide the
service, and not to educate in the use of the computers. Library staff can
help patrons get started on the computers, assist with troubleshooting,
offer search suggestions, and answer questions of a general nature.
Library staff cannot, however devote the time needed for one-on-one I instruction concerning the internet and programs offered on the
computers. Because of library scheduling, internet-trained staff may not
always be immediately available to assist patrons. Therefore, computer
patrons need to be prepared to work as independently as possible.
3. Children’s Use
Children 17 and younger are allowed access to Computers A through E. The Duncanville Public Library encourages parents to work closely with and monitor their child(s) internet and computer use. Parents are REQUIRED to SIT with their children aged 10 and younger while using this service in the library. Parents concerned about their children’s use of the internet are encouraged to read and share with their children MY RULE OF ONLINE SAFETY. This is included in an excellent publication from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, entitled CHILD SAFETY ON THE INFORMATION HIGHWAY (2003), which has been included in this policy manual (see Addendum). When Computers A through E are in use and there is a computer designated for adult use available, a child may request permission from the Librarian on Duty to use the computer. The Librarian on Duty will make the decision based on the child’s need. Acceptable requests include checking school email, researching school projects, or writing papers. Not acceptable are requests to use a computer to play games, enter chat rooms, instant messaging, or participating in discussion groups.
B. Rules Governing Use
All computer users must read, sign, and agree to comply with the Duncanville Public Library’s Computer and Internet use policy and user rules BEFORE using the service.
All users must have a Duncanville Public Library card to use the service. A computer-use only card is available to non-residents for a fee (See Addendum for Fee Schedule). Users MUST use their own card and cannot use another person’s library card to access computer services. If they do, their session will be terminated immediately, and the patron who allowed others to use their card will have their privileges suspended for two weeks.
All users must bring their library card in order to use the computers. If the card is forgotten, the user will need to retrieve it. Requests for users’ Library card numbers cannot be provided as library staff will not divulge library card numbers to anyone due to confidentiality of library records.
The Library has a ZERO TOLERANCE policy towards the viewing of pornography. If a patron is found visiting such sites their computer privileges will be permanently suspended.
All users will have access on a first come first serve basis.
All users are limited to two (2) log-in sessions per day. A session lasts up to one hour, though in quiet times sessions will automatically be extended in 15 minute increments.
Only two (2) users are allowed at each computer workstation. A quiet atmosphere is enforced in all areas and noisy, disruptive users will be asked to leave the library if they do not comply. Computer privileges may be suspended accordingly.
Children 10 and under MUST have a parent sit with them when using the service. If a child of this age or younger is found to be using the service without a parent present, their session will be terminated immediately.
Users may work from and save to a disk. Disks are available for sale at the Check-Out Desk for a fee (see Addendum).
Users are responsible for paying for all copies generated in advance.
Users may not use any library workstation for illegal or criminal purpose and must comply with U.S. Copyright law and all other applicable laws.
Failure to comply with the Computer and Internet use policy and user rules will result in immediate suspension of computer services for the user.
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