BETHEL PUBLIC LIBRARY
POLICY ON PUBLIC INTERNET ACCESS

SECTION 1: ACCESS TO INTERNET RESOURCES

The Bethel Public Library provides its users with access to the Internet as part of its ongoing commitment to make information available through a variety of formats and from a variety of sources. The Internet, as an information resource, enables the library to provide information beyond the confines of its own collection.

The Internet is a global and unregulated information network. It is filled with resources that can educate, inform, and entertain. However, access to material of a controversial or mature nature, as well as to material that is not accurate, complete, or current, is unavoidable. The library cannot control the information available through the Internet and does not accept responsibility for its quality, accuracy, or currency. The library advises users to exercise judgment when evaluating the usefulness and reliability of material found on the Internet.

The Bethel Public Library provides unfiltered access to the Internet. As with all library materials, restriction of a child’s access to the Internet is the responsibility of his or her parents or legal guardians. The library staff cannot and does not act in loco parentis. Library staff is available to provide assistance and help to identify appropriate sites. Parents or guardians are encouraged to read the brochure “Children and the Internet - Using it Safely, Using it Wisely” available free in the Children’s Library.

SECTION 2: CONFIDENTIALITY

The Bethel Public Library strives to preserve confidentiality and privacy for all library users. However,absolute privacy for patrons using electronic resources in the library cannot be guaranteed. All users are asked to respect the privacy of other users and not attempt to censor or comment on what others are viewing.

SECTION 3: RESPONSIBILITIES OF USERS

The library’s computers may be used only for lawful purposes. Unacceptable uses include, but are not limited to: accessing material that is obscene, pornographic, or ‘harmful to minors’ (consistent with state laws and/or local standards); harassing, libeling or slandering others; destruction of or damage to equipment, software or hardware; disruption or unauthorized monitoring of electronic communications; or unauthorized copying of copyright-protected materials. Rules governing acceptable use of the library’s Internet equipment are posted for patron inspection.

Internet users who release personal information do so at their own risk. Anything accessed or entered on the library’s computers is not secure and may be accessible to others.

The library’s Internet workstations are located in public areas that are shared by patrons of all ages. Internet users are asked to refrain from accessing potentially offensive information or images. It is the user’s responsibility to exercise good judgment when accessing the Internet, and to be alert to any information or images that could be considered offensive to other patrons in a library environment.

User sessions and/or Internet usage privileges will be suspended or revoked if, in the opinion of the Library administration, use and/or behavior at the Internet workstations is not in accordance with this policy, or with in-library computer workstation usage rules. In addition, any illegal activity involving the use of the library’s computers, including the Internet, will be subject to prosecution by the appropriate authorities.

SECTION 4: POLICY EFFECTIVE DATE, AMENDMENTS, AND REVISIONS:

This policy is effective upon approval of the Library Board of Directors. Amendments and/or revisions to this policy shall be formulated and recommended to the Board by the Policy Committee. The policy may then be amended and/or revised at the regular meeting of the Board, following the meeting at which the amendment and/or revision was proposed.

Approved by the Library Board of Directors October 1996

Revised and approved: April 26, 1999
September 23, 2002
September 22, 2003

BETHEL PUBLIC LIBRARY
COMPUTER WORKSTATION USAGE RULES

1. Who May Use: Anyone who has a valid library card from his or her hometown library may use the computer workstations. Children ages 7 and under must be accompanied by an adult while using computers. It is suggested that workstations in the Children’s Room be used by children ages 12 and under.

2. Reservations: Workstations may be reserved up to 24 hours in advance for a period of up to 60 minutes.

3. To Begin Using a Computer Workstation: A valid library card is required in order to use the library’s computers. A person is asked to bring his/her card to the staff service desk on the level where he/she will be using the computer. A Bethel resident may apply for a library card at the Circulation Desk on the main level. Proof of residency is required.

4. Time Limits: The library does not impose a time limit on workstation use unless patrons are waiting. When others are waiting, user sessions will be limited to one hour. If you wish to use a computer but all workstations are in use, please register at the staff service desk on the level where you wish to use the computer.

5. Printing Charges: Printing charges are 10 cents/page for black and white copies and 25 cents/page for color copies. Please pay at the staff service desk on the level that the printer is located.

6. Number of Users at a Workstation: The library may limit the number of people using the same workstation at the same time. There is a maximum of two people at a workstation at a time.

7. Uploading/Downloading: Uploading software onto the library’s computers is not permitted. Downloading to a floppy disk is permitted. The library sells pre-formatted disks for $1.00 each. Please see the staff member at the service desk to purchase disks.

8. Chat Rooms and Instant Messaging are not allowed.

9. Problems and Staff Assistance: The library staff is able to offer some assistance to users of the library’s computers and peripheral equipment. However, users are asked to have basic computer skills. Patrons experiencing usage problems should speak with a staff member. Please do not re-boot any computer. Those needing substantial help are encouraged to sign up for one of the many instructional classes offered at the library. Please see staff for details and a schedule.

10. Inappropriate Uses: The library’s computer workstations may not be used for illegal, harmful, or damaging purposes; may not be used to access potentially offensive information or images; and must be used in compliance with these rules and with library policy in general. Please read the library’s Policy on Public Internet Access (a copy is posted at this workstation), which identifies specific actions and uses that could result in the loss of a user’s Internet or workstation privileges.