INTERNET POLICIES OF THE GLOVERSVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY

The Gloversville Public Library provides its users with access to computers and the Internet as part of its ongoing commitment to make information available in a variety of formats and from a variety of sources.

The computers in the Reference Room are available only to a patron in good standing with an Adult or Young Adult library card. To be in “good standing” an Adult or Young Adult patron can not have a library debt of more than $3.

The computers in the Children’s Room are available only to a patron with a Juvenile library card and in good standing. To be in “good standing,” a Juvenile patron can not have a library debt of more than $1.50. Patrons with a Juvenile library card must have parental permission on file with the Library to access the Internet. Parents and guardians are responsible for sites their children access. The Library staff cannot and does not act in loco parentis. Parents and guardians are encouraged to continue to participate in their child’s learning by helping their child select materials that they feel are appropriate.

Users may not modify Library hardware, delete or modify Library software nor install software on Library computers. Only the A: and USB drives maybe used for accessing and saving personal files. The Library reserves the right to impose time restrictions on computer use and to limit the number of patrons per computer.

The Internet is a global and unregulated information network. It is filled with resources that can educate, inform, and entertain. The Library cannot control the information available through the Internet and does not accept responsibility for its quality, accuracy, or timeliness. The Library advises users to exercise judgment when evaluating the usefulness and reliability of matter found on the Internet. Library computers do not have filters.

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.

Patrons are responsible for the cost of pages printed even if printed in error.

The Library’s Internet 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 posted rules and this policy.

The Library also provides wireless access to patrons having computers with wireless capability. Laptop computers are not provided by the Library. Wireless users are bound by the same usage guidelines as patrons using the Library’s computers.

A patron’s Internet privileges will be suspended or revoked if, in the opinion of the Library Director, use and/or behavior at the Internet workstations is not in accordance with this policy, or with posted Internet usage rules. Illegal acts involving the Library’s Internet connection may be subject to prosecution by local, state, or federal authorities. Users will be held responsible for their actions using the Internet.

Adopted January 17, 2006
by the Board of Trustees of the Gloversville Public Library

< BACK