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Computer Use and Internet Access Policy

The Perry Public Library is pleased to provide access to electronic resources via the Internet through the use of our public access computers.  Computers are available for public use during regular business hours, except during times of routine or emergency maintenance.  The purpose of providing public Internet access is to expose the public to the world of information available on the Internet and to provide equal access to that information for all individuals in the community.

Since the Internet is a global electronic network, the Perry Public Library has no control over the information accessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its content.  The Internet and its available resources may contain material of a controversial nature.  The library will not censor access to material nor protect users from offensive information and is not responsible for the availability or accuracy of information accessed from remote network sites. 

The following rules govern the use of the library computers:

  1. Check in at the Circulation Desk is required prior to using any of the following computers:

    1. Children's workstation (requires library card)

    2. Public Internet workstations (to receive a pin number)  Patrons under age 18 must present a library card or a photo ID.

    3. Computer Lab workstations (to receive a pin number)  Patrons must be over age 18 to use the Computer Lab.  Patrons who appear under 18 may be asked for a photo ID.

  2. There is a 30-minute time limit for the Public Internet computers when others are waiting.  When no one is waiting, additional time at the Public Internet workstations is limited to one additional 30-minute session.  Computer Lab sessions are for 60 minutes, with an additional hour option when no one is waiting.  However, if use of a computer results in disruption of library services or if behavior becomes inappropriate for a library setting, the Library reserves the right to end the session at any time.

  3. Printing is available for.15 cents per black and white page and 50 cents per color page.

  4. A diskette or flash drive may be used to save information from a computer.  Diskettes are available for purchase at the Circulation Desk.  The library is not responsible for any damage to personal diskettes or flash drives when used in library computers.  Although the library uses anti-virus software on its computers, absolute protection is not guaranteed.   Software downloaded from the Internet may contain viruses.  The library encourages the Internet user to install and use anti-virus software on his/her own computer and equipment.

  5. Individual software may not be installed or used to alter or attach equipment to the library's hardware or to attempt to bypass security features.

  6. Each user is responsible for complying with copyright law and adhering to software licensing agreements, as well as all local, state, and federal laws including, but not limited to, those concerning fraud, privacy, or obscenity.

  7. Library staff may be able to help with basic computer use and startup procedures, but may not be able to provide information on the use of each software program.  If one has never used a computer or if one has specific questions about a software program, reference books and use guides are available.

  8. Misuse of the computer may result in suspension or loss of computer privileges.

The following rules govern access to the Internet from the library:

  1. Internet communications shall be considered private, and confidentiality will be encouraged within the limits of public environment, the technology of the equipment, and the requirements of law.

  2. The Internet user may encounter closed or restricted databases and resources for which the library accepts no responsibility:

    1. The host computer has been "overloaded" by Internet visitors and has closed down or limited access.

    2. The host computer is no longer maintained or has changed its address or Universal Resource Locater (URL).

    3. The database or computer is only accessible to users affiliated with a specific licensed organization.

    4. Perry Public Library's Internet connection may be temporarily closed down for maintenance or due to technical difficulties.

  3. The library does not offer electronic mail (e-mail) accounts or access to chat rooms, news or discussion groups. However, there are many Internet providers who offer free e-mail access.

  4. As is the case with other materials in the library's collection, any restriction of a child's access to the Internet is the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian. The Perry Public Library cannot act as a censor or substitute parent.  It is the responsibility of the parents to provide the oversight to ensure their children's use of the Internet in a safe and appropriate manner, including the proper use of expensive computer equipment.

  5. Violations of these rules may lead to the suspension or revocation of Internet access through the library.