COMPUTER POLICY AND REGULATIONS

Hiawatha Public Library

INTERNET

Consistent with its mission, the Hiawatha Public Library will provide opportunities to explore the World Wide Web and the Internet in the library. The Internet enables the library to provide access to information beyond the confines of its own collection.

1. Use of the Internet computers and word processing computers is available on first-come, first-served basis. It may be possible to extend that time if someone else does not need the computer. Due to the limited number of Internet stations available, people will be limited to a maximum of 2 hours a day.
2. Use of the Internet computers is limited to the cardholders. No one is allowed to use another person’s library card account to access the internet computers. No more than two people at a time are allowed at a computer.
3. Use of the Internet computers is limited to those whose library accounts are in good standing with less than $3.00 in fines or fees. Those with fines/fees over the $3.00 limit may still use computers for word processing by asking at the circulation desk.
4. Patrons requesting use of the Internet will need to possess a library card and will read and agree to a usage agreement that will be kept on file. An individual must use the library’s computer reservation station to be assigned a computer. The reservation station is located at the circulation desk.
5. The library assumes no responsibility for the use of the Internet. Just as libraries do not vouch for or endorse the viewpoints of all written material in their collection, they do not do so for electronic information. Parents or guardians are responsible for the Internet information selected and/or accessed by their children.
6. Parents/guardians may restrict their children and only their children-from access to Internet resources accessible through the library. Parents/guardians are advised to supervise their children's Internet sessions.
7. Sending and/or receiving e-mail is permitted on the library's Internet computers, but the library does not provide e-mail accounts.
8. Personal software programs cannot be used on library computers.
9. Personal diskettes, CDs, and flash drives may be used on library computers.
10. Software cannot be downloaded from the Internet.
11. Printing is available for $.10/pg. Prints made from the default laser printer HP1200 are $.10 each. Documents will be printed from a shared laser printer that is kept at the circulation desk. Color printing is available by using the Sharp MX 2300N. Color prints will cost $.50 per page.
12. Sometimes library staff can help with basic computer use, but we will not provide detailed information on software and its use. The library reserves the right to require anyone who wishes to use the computers to be knowledgeable in their operation.
13. The use of the library computers must be for legal and ethical purposes. Examples of unacceptable purposes include, but are not limited to the following:
  • Destruction of or damage to equipment, software or data belonging to the library;
  • Violation of computer system security and/or system configuration;
  • Violation of another user's right to privacy;
  • Violation of the copyright laws of the United States;
  • Use of sounds and visuals that might be disruptive to others;
  • Receiving or displaying text or graphics which may reasonably be construed as indecent or obscene;
  • Accessing “adult only” sites is not allowed.
14. The Internet is an unregulated medium. It offers access to a wealth of material that may be personally, professionally and culturally enriching to people of all ages. However, the Internet also allows access to material that may be offensive, disturbing and/or illegal.
15. Library staff cannot control the availability, accuracy, or currency of information links, which often change rapidly and unpredictably. Each individual must evaluate the validity and reliability of the information.

**Violations of the computer use policy may result in loss of computer privileges and may lead to financial responsibility. Illegal acts involving library computers may also be subject to prosecution by local, state, or federal authorities. It is against the law Iowa to download or provide child pornography, or display pornography where children may see it. (Iowa Code, chapter 728.2)

Adopted by the Board of Trustees 12/1/98
Revised 10/7/99
Revised 2/12/02
Revised 7/9/02
Revised 1/14/03
Revised 5/11/05
Revised 11/8/05
Revised 3/13/07
Revised 10/16/07
Revised 5/12/09