Library Policies
Internet Access and Computer Use Policy

The Berlin-Peck Memorial Library offers free and open access to the Internet, in accordance with its mission, the American Library Association’s “Library Bill of Rights” and the associated interpretation “Access to Electronic Information, Services, and Networks.” The Internet offers access to many valuable information sources. However, not all sources provide accurate, complete, unbiased or current information.

Content and Filtering

The Library does not monitor or control the content of the material accessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its contents. Not all information found on the Internet is accurate, complete, or up-to-date, legal or philosophically acceptable to all individuals. The Library assumes no responsibility and shall have no liability for any direct, indirect or consequential damages arising from the use of information found on the Internet or any communications sent through the Library’s Internet computers. The Library does not monitor an individual’s use of the Internet; nor does the Library employ filtering software.

As with other Library materials, restriction of a child’s access to the Internet is the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian. The Library does not provide any monitoring or supervision. Parents are strongly advised to monitor their children’s use of the Library’s computer system, or the services, programs and networks connected to it, if they wish to control the information, messages and graphics to which their children are exposed.

Illegal Activities

Use of the Library’s computers for the transmission, dissemination, and/or duplication of information is regulated under various state and federal laws. The Library expects all users to comply with such laws.

Illegal activities, as well as any other activities that are intended to interfere with or disrupt network users, services, or equipment are prohibited and may result in suspension of access to computers at the Berlin-Peck Memorial Library or result in prosecution.

The following activities are unacceptable:

1. The use of electronic information networks for any purpose that results in the harassment of other users
2. The destruction of, damage to, or unauthorized alteration of library computer equipment, software, or network security procedures
3. The use of electronic information networks in any way that violates a federal or state law, including copyright law
4. The use of electronic information networks in any way that violates licensing or payment agreements between the Berlin-Peck Memorial Library and network or database providers
5. The unauthorized duplication of copy-protected software or digital recordings
6. Behaving in a manner that disrupts other users, including overuse of computer equipment that serves to deny access to other users
7. The use of the computer for sending, receiving or displaying inappropriate materials which may reasonably be construed as obscene

Illegal acts involving library computer and wireless access point resources may be subject to prosecution by local, state, or federal authorities. Internet users are requested to limit use to viewing online service sites that are appropriate in a public setting. Library equipment should not be used to access material that is considered to be obscene or pornographic (by other patrons or staff).

Library Staff

Berlin-Peck Memorial Library staff will assist patrons with Internet use as time permits, but staff cannot offer extended personal instruction. It is also not possible for staff to evaluate or judge the quality or merit of every site that a patron may access. The reference staff is always available to help patrons locate books, periodicals, and other materials about the Internet.

General Procedures for Use of Computers

Library cards must be current and in good standing. Fines in excess of $10.00 or more must be paid before computer use is allowed.

Internet workstations are available on a first come, first served basis. If all stations are in use, patrons may register at the computer reservation station, which will assign the next available computer.

Adults and high school students may use the Library’s Internet workstations in the Reference Department. Middle school aged students and younger may use the workstations in the Children’s Department. Adults unaccompanied by children may not use workstations in the Children’s Department.

File Storage/Saving

In order to preserve the integrity of the library computer network, patrons are prohibited from installing software or permanently saving documents on library computers. However, patrons may use personal storage media to transport and save data, including but not limited to floppy disks, flash drives (which may be purchased at the Reference Desk for $6), CD-R disks, etc. Note that personal files cannot be saved to the hard drives of the library’s computers.

Personal storage devices left in library computers will be kept for two weeks. After two weeks, the contents will be erased and the device disposed of.

Printing

There is a charge for printing from the Library’s computers: 15¢ per page/side for black and white and 50¢ per page/side for color.

Wireless Internet Access

Patrons with wireless access capabilities on their own equipment, such as laptops, PDAs, etc., are welcome to use the Internet through the Library. This access option is open to patrons of all ages; parents or guardians of children under the age of 18 are responsible for supervising and guaranteeing their child’s proper and safe use of the Internet. No registration or sign-up is required.

Use of the Library’s wireless access points constitutes acceptance of this Internet Access and Computer Use Policy. The Library provides no filtering or virus protection on its wireless Internet access points for patrons. The Library assumes no responsibility for damage caused to patrons’ equipment (hardware or software).

Patrons are responsible for configuring their equipment to access the Library’s wireless Internet access point. Library staff will only be able to provide a network address or name to the patron. The library staff can provide general information and handouts on using the Internet and how to connect to the wireless network, as well as the online catalog, and other databases, but cannot offer in-depth training. The reference staff is always available to assist patrons with locating books, periodicals, and other materials about the Internet. It is also not possible for staff to evaluate or judge the quality or merits of every site that the user may access.

There is a charge for printing from your wireless device to the Library’s printer: 15¢ per page/side for black and white and 50¢ per page/side for color.