430. Computer and Internet Use Policy

The internet provides access to a wide range of materials and opinions from various points of view from around the world. However, not everything found on the internet is current, accurate, or complete. Some might find the information available on the internet to be offensive or inappropriate. While the Karl Junginger Memorial Library is sensitive to concerns about internet content, no one, including the Library, can control the information available through the internet. The library does not have filtering software installed on the internet. Each individual is responsible for their appropriate use of the internet in the Library. As such, users are cautioned that information and images can be encountered which may be considered controversial and /or offensive. The provision of access does not mean or imply that the library sanctions or endorses the content users encounter.

Access to the internet is available to all patrons with a valid ID or Library Card; however, this internet service may be restricted at any time for use not consistent with Library policy. It is the responsibility of parents/guardians to determine and monitor their child’s use of library materials and resources.  Parents/Guardians of minor children must assume responsibility for their children’s use of the library’s Internet service. When patrons use the Library’s public computers and internet service, they are agreeing to abide by this policy.

Library staff is available to assist patrons in their use of the internet, but may not be familiar with every application, patrons might wish to use. Due to scheduling constraints, there may not be a librarian available to help at all times. Because of the many different internet applications available, Library staff cannot provide complete technical support.

GENERAL GUIDELINES

  • Patrons may connect their personal devices to any available electrical power outlet provided the cord(s) do not create a hazard. Library staff shall have the authority to determine what constitutes a hazard. Patrons may not unplug Library equipment.
  • The Library is not responsible for any loss or damage to personal storage devices.
  • Patrons are responsible for the consequences of any copyright infringement.
  • If a user prints, there will be a per-page charge. The library reserves the right to adjust the per-page rate of print as necessary.
  • Patrons must use headphones when using applications that require sound.
  • Each computer workstation may be occupied by no more than two individuals at a time. Exceptions may be made for sanctioned group work.

INTERNET GUIDELINES

  • Before connecting to the Library’s internet service and/or public computers, patrons must read and accept the terms of this policy, which are displayed onscreen.
  • While respecting patrons’ right to privacy whenever possible, staff have the right to monitor the use of the Library’s internet and computers to ensure compliance with Library policy.
  • No user may access the internet by use of a terminal reserved for accessing online Library catalogs.
  • The Library is not responsible for any financial loss that may occur while using the Library’s internet services. This includes, but is not limited to, loss due to improper use of online financial tools, personal information intercepted, and identity theft.
  • Inappropriate, illegal, or unacceptable use is prohibited and can result in loss of internet privileges, loss of Library privileges, and/or legal action.
  • The library’s internet access is unfiltered.
  • Parents/guardians of children under the age of 18 must assume full responsibility for their children’s use of the Library’s computers and internet service. The Library does not monitor and has no control over the information accessed through the internet and cannot be held responsible for its content. All Library resources, including internet access, are provided equally to all Library users.
  • Parents and guardians with children under the age of 18 must sign an Internet use permission section on the library Application for Library Borrower Privileges if they wish to give their child access to Internet-access computers.

WIRELESS NETWORK

  • The Library does not guarantee that all personal electronic devices will be able to connect to the wireless network. Response speed, bandwidth, and continuity of connection are not guaranteed.
  • Anti-virus and security protection are the responsibility of the patron. The patron understands the wireless internet connection is unsecured and open to everyone.
  • The Library reserves the right to disconnect any device and to deny patrons the use of wireless internet access if they fail to comply with any part of this policy.
  • Patrons using personal electronic devices may not connect to the Library’s computer network or Library computers using a wire or cable.
  • Patrons may connect their wireless devices to any available electrical power outlet provided the cord(s) do not create a hazard. Library staff shall have the authority to determine what constitutes a hazard. Patrons may not unplug Library equipment.

WIRED NETWORK (PUBLIC COMPUTERS)

  • Children aged 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult or guardian of at least 12 years of age when using the Library’s public computers, to ensure proper use of the equipment.
  • Users must sign in with their own Library card number or sign in with a guest pass. 
  • Children are not allowed to use a guest pass and must use their Library card to sign in.
  • Computer and internet use are offered in sixty (60) minute sessions. The Library reserves the right to change the time limit per session as necessary.  Patrons may be granted additional time but this is not guaranteed. If patrons are waiting to use a computer, the patron must abandon the use of the computer after their session.

USER RESPONSIBILITIES

Internet users are expected to use this library resource responsibly and courteously and to follow all Internet-related rules, regulations, and procedures established by the library board of trustees. Individuals who violate the rules of responsible use outlined in this document will lose Internet access in the amount of time determined by the library director and/or library board of trustees. Any violation of the computer use policy may result in the suspension of library privileges, and/or legal prosecution, or both.

Patrons may not use public computers and internet services for any illegal or inappropriate purposes. The following activities are illegal or considered inappropriate and are therefore prohibited:

  • Viewing, sending, receiving, or displaying text or graphics that may be reasonably construed as obscene, offensive, threatening, harassing, or “harmful to children” as defined by Sec. 948.11 of the Wisconsin Statutes; which lack serious artistic, literary, political, educational, or scientific value. Transmitting and/or receiving child pornography is a crime.
  • Failing to abide by federal, state, and municipal laws and regulations
  • Disregarding the privacy of others
  • Misrepresenting oneself
  • Attempting to modify or gain access to files, passwords, or data belonging to others; seeking unauthorized access to any computer system
  • Damaging or altering the setup or configuration of any software or hardware components, or any network or database
  • Making any changes to the setup or configuration of the Library’s internet resources or library computer.
  • Interfering with or disturbing other Library patrons
  • Making unauthorized copies of the copyrighted or licensed software or data. United States copyright law governs the reproduction, distribution, adaptation, public performance, and public display of copyrighted material. Responsibility for any possible copyright infringement lies solely with the user; the Library disclaims any responsibility or liability resulting thereof.

Approved: 01/18/1996

Amended: 08/26/1998, 04/19/2000, 02/20/2002, 06/22/2006, 11/12/2013, 07/15/2014, 05/09/2017, 05/12/2020, 10/25/2022