Computer/Internet/WiFi Use Policy

A. The library respects a patron’s right to both confidentiality and privacy. Patrons are cautioned that the

Internet is not a secure medium and all transactions, files, and communications may be subject to

unauthorized access by third parties. The library, however, will not release information on the use of

electronic resources by members of the public except as required by law.

B. The library's computers are located in a public area that is shared with library users and staff of all

ages, backgrounds, and sensibilities. Individuals are expected to consider this diversity and respect the

sensibilities of others when accessing potentially offensive information or images.

C. The Internet is viewed as a resource tool used to provide information beyond the confines of the

library's own collection. Some resources may contain material of a controversial or mature nature.

The Sherman Free Library does not censor information accessed through the Internet. The library

assumes no liability or responsibility for what is viewed by patrons or left on the screen to be viewed by

subsequent patrons and cannot guarantee computer viewing privacy, nor can the library guarantee the

privacy of information sent or received over the Internet.

D. The Sherman Free Library, unlike schools, does not serve in loco parentis (in place of a parent).

Librarians cannot act in the the place of parents in providing constant care and supervision of children as

they explore the Internet. The library does not employ any filtered search engines on their computers.

Monitoring a child is the responsibility of the parent or guardian.

Children under 14 years of age must be accompanied by an adult when using any of the public

computers, especially the Internet. Parents or guardians must provide written permission for

unaccompanied children. See Internet Consent form.

Older children may use the Internet independently; however, monitoring what a child views on the

Internet still remains the responsibility of the parent or guardian.

Library staff is authorized to monitor computer use as needed to determine compliance with library

policies and can at any time revoke computer privileges.

E. Rules and Limits

1. Use of the Internet for activities that violate local, state, or federal laws Is prohibited. This

includes activities such as viewing child pornography, committing fraud, hacking, or spreading

libel or slander. Patrons may not send, receive, or display text or graphics that may reasonably be

construed as obscene.

2. The Sherman Free Library expressly disclaims any liability or responsibility arising from access to

or use of information obtained through its electronic resources or any consequences thereof.

3. The Staff cannot provide in-depth computer training, but will answer questions and, as time

allows, help users locate and use resources on the Internet or on other electronic tools in the

library.

4. Users must sign in at the librarian's desk before accessing a computer terminal.

5. No reservations are taken to use the Internet.

6. Computer use is limited to 45 minutes.

7. Patrons wishing to download information must purchase a disc from the librarian or may bring

their own disc or memory stick.

8. Users may not install, delete or modify library hardware or software or change any of the settings

or defaults of the computers. They may not download software from the Internet onto the library's

computers. Users may not misuse library computers or other equipment and resources. Users

may make only authorized copies of copyrighted or licensed software or data.

9. Users shall not create and/or distribute computer viruses over the Internet.

10. Costs for printing are posted by the computers.

11. Misuse of the computers will result in the loss of computer privileges.