Computer Usage Policy

Rights of Users
Although the library does not individually monitor the use of computers or the Internet by patrons and respects the privacy of individual patrons, patrons should note that security is technically difficult to achieve and that electronic communications and files are safest when they are treated by the patron as if they were public. The library makes no assurances of privacy or confidentiality with regard to the use of computer equipment, or a transmission, receipt or storage of information with this equipment.

Obligations of Users

All users of electronic information resources are expected to use them responsibly consistent with the educational and informational purposes for which they are provided.

1. Privileges

Only one person may use the computer at a time. Only one observer or tutor is permitted to be present.

Computer reservations may be made in one hour blocks at the Reference Desk. The library is not responsible for any interruption or inability to use the computer equipment as a result of power failure, computer malfunction, upkeep, or any other reasons.

Walk-ins are allowed if a computer is free and not reserved. The last appointment of the day will be one hour before the library closing time.

There is no charge for the use of workstation computers or to access information from them. However, a printer fee of 10 cents per page is charged.

2. Library Staff

The library staff is available to give a brief orientation on the menu being used but may not be familiar with every application. Due to scheduling restraints there may not be a trained computer staff person on duty at all times.

3. Legal Issues

Misuse or abuse of computers or of Internet access, or any violation of this policy, will result in suspension of library privileges. When applicable, law enforcement agencies may be involved. In addition, the user shall be obligated to reimburse the library for any damage to the computer equipment caused by negligence or vandalism.

The computer may not be used for any purpose which would violate any state or federal laws, regulations or ordinances, including but not limited to those concerning obscenity, harassment or copyrights. Minors are not permitted to view or download explicit sexual materials as defined in 18 Pennsylvania Code of Statutes 5903. The patron shall remain liable for use of the computer in conformance with applicable law.

4. Computer/Printer/Hardware/Software

Patrons may not alter or attach equipment to the library's computer hardware.

Patrons may not store files, documents, or information on the library's computer. Any such information stored or received shall be deleted from the computer by the library.

The library assumes no responsibility for any loss of or damage to any documents, work product, files or disks as a result of the use of the library computer.

Patrons may not install or load their own software application programs.

FAX software use is not permitted.

5. Internet Policy

The library has no control of the Internet and its resources, and assumes no responsibility for the content, quality, accuracy, or currency of any Internet resource. The Internet may contain material of a controversial or objectionable nature. Displaying this material to others may constitute an illegal act.

The library will not serve as a host for electronic mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, list-servers, online bulletin boards and other online electronic communications.

In the case of use by children under 18 years of age, it is the policy of the library to promote the safety and security of these minors by preventing (1) access to inappropriate material via the Internet, electronic mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, list-servers, online bulletin boards and other online electronic communications, (2) unauthorized access (e.g., "hacking") and unlawful online activity, and (3) unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of personal identification of minors.

Parents must be responsible for their children for all Internet computer usage. Responsibility for decisions about appropriateness in usage rests with parents or legal guardians. Children under 18 years old must obtain on-site written approval from their parents or legal guardians to use the Internet, electronic mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, list-servers, online bulletin boards, and other online electronic communications, or to disclose, use or disseminate personal identification information of minors. Specifically with regard to minors, parents or legal guardians are expected to monitor their children's usage to prevent access to inappropriate material, unauthorized access (e.g., "hacking") and unlawful online activity, and unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of personal identification of minors.

To the extent technologically feasible, and as required by the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA), the library has in place and enforces the operation of a technology protection measure to block or filter Internet access during adult and minor use of computers with Internet access to protect against access to visual depictions that are obscene, child pornography, or, in the case of minors, harmful to minors (as those terms are defined in the Children's Internet Protection Act). At the library's discretion, such technology may be disabled for adults to conduct bona fide research.

Filtering software is not foolproof. It diminishes the likelihood that searchers will inadvertently retrieve text or images that they may find offensive, but does not eliminate that possibility. Filters often block access to sites that users would consider both inoffensive and useful ("over block").

This Internet Safety Policy was adopted by the Board of the Cranberry Public Library at a public meeting, following public notice, on June 17, 2002.