Section 1: Content
The library recognizes the right of individuals to determine what is most appropriate for their needs. Users should be aware that information accessed via the Internet may be controversial, inaccurate, unregulated, or outdated. Because of this access and because sites on the Internet change often, rapidly, and unpredictably, the Library cannot protect users from the information and images which they might find offensive or disturbing. Providing access to the internet does not constitute endorsement of the content by the Library.
While, the Library filters internet access on Library-owned technology that works to block access to information and materials that are child pornography or considered obscene or harmful to minors, the Library does not guarantee that such software will block all materials under these categories. Likewise, some information and websites that do not fall under these categories may inadvertently be blocked.
Section 2: Children’s Use of the Internet
As with other library materials and services, the Library cannot act in loco parentis. Therefore parents or legal guardians are responsible for the information selected or accessed by children including wirelessly inside or outside the Library. Internet workstations specifically configured for use by children may limit or prevent access to specific Internet sites.
Section 3: Library Responsibilities and Disclaimers
The Library uses software that prevents browser history from being collected or personal information entered into websites or applications from being retained. Likewise, patron computer use records are not permanently maintained. The Library cannot reveal personal data or related internet usage or browsing unless required by law or court order.
Providing access to information via the internet does not constitute endorsement of the content by the Library. The Library Board expressly disclaims any liability or responsibility arising from access to or use of information obtained through the internet. The Library assumes no responsibility for direct or indirect loss or damage to user’s information, data, or portable storage devices, or for any damage or injury that results from viruses or invasion of privacy while using Library-owned equipment or wireless access points.
Section 4: Patron Responsibilities
The same principles that guide the use of other Library resources apply to the use of the Internet. The Library expects customers to use the Internet in a responsible manner respecting the rights of others and following Library rules of behavior.
- Parents, guardians, and caregivers are responsible for internet use by the children under their care.
- The internet is not a private environment and security of electronic communications cannot be guaranteed. Patrons handling financial transactions or other activities requiring confidentiality do so at their own risk.
- Patrons are asked to respect the sensibilities of others when accessing images that may be deemed reasonably offensive to others, as the possibility of inadvertent viewing by others cannot be guaranteed.
- Users are responsible for complying with copyright laws and adhering to licensing agreements of the software they use from Library equipment, as well as abiding by Minnesota and Federal laws such as hacking, fraud, privacy, or obscenity.
- While Library Staff may assist patrons with guidance on their personal devices, Staff are not responsible for security of those devices.
- Patrons may not hack or interfere with other patrons’ devices, system operations, or the Library’s network or computer system.
- Users will not harass, stalk, or bully others with messages, prints, images, or software while using Library technology.
- No patron may tamper with, hack, or damage Library equipment, filtering software, or any other software or device meant to protect the Library’s network and security systems.
Section 5: Acceptance of Terms and Conditions
A patron’s use of Library equipment or wireless service to access the internet constitutes agreement with this policy. Questions or concerns may be directed to Library Staff, the Director, or members of the Library Board. Use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right, and unacceptable use may initiate computer or library suspension.