This
page contains the text of various library policies and copies of library forms.
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The Clarion Free library is pleased to offer access to the wealth of information available on the Internet as part of its public service mission. The Internet, as an information resource, enables the library to provide access to information, ideas, images, and commentary beyond the confines of its own collection, mission, selection criteria, and collection development policies.
Therefore:
• All users must sign the Internet log located at the front desk before using
the library’s computers.
• Time permitting, library staff will assist in getting library users started on researching the Internet, but each individual user must accept responsibility for determining search and exploration paths logged on to the Internet.
• The first purpose of the computer lab is for education. At times it will be cordoned off for use by groups.
• Since the Internet is an extension of the resources of the library, it is made available for the primary purpose of reference and research.
• Because the Internet contains a wide variety of material and opinions from varied points of view, not all sources on the Internet provide complete, accurate, or current information. The library makes no warranty as the information accuracy, authoritativeness, timeliness, usefulness, or fitness for a particular purpose. The library shall have no liability for any direct, indirect, or consequential damages to the use of the information contained within.
• Library computers have Internet filtering software activated on them in compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act. However, adults (those 17 and older) may request unfiltered access to the Internet for any purpose that does not violate the law or the library’s policies. The filter on an individual computer will be disabled in response to such a request.
• As with all library resources, the library affirms the right and responsibility of parents/guardians, NOT library staff, to determine and monitor children’s use of the Internet. (Minors are defined in this policy as children and young people under the age of 17 years.) Parents are responsible for their minor children’s use of the library’s resources and facilities. Parents who believe that their children cannot responsibly use the library’s Internet access are requested to monitor their children’s Internet use. The library does help parents in that the Internet is not available in the children’s room.
• The library supports the users’ right to privacy. However, users are advised that because security is technically difficult to achieve, and the fact that monitors are in public areas, electronic communication and files could be viewed by others. The library shall have no liability for damage or injury arising from the invasion of the user’s privacy by others.
• No storage medium from the outside may be used in any library computer unless it is first scanned by library staff. Computer discs may be purchased from the library for this purpose.
Unacceptable Uses of Computers:
Among the uses that are considered unacceptable and which constitute a violation
of this policy are the following:
• Viewing Internet sites that contain child pornography, obscenity, or are harmful to minors.
• Transmitting of offensive or harassing messages; offering for sale or use any substance the possession or use of which is prohibited by law; viewing, transmitting or downloading pornographic materials or materials that encourage others to violate the law; downloading or transmitting confidential, trade secret information, or copyrighted materials. Even if materials on the networks are not marked with the copyright symbol, users should assume that all materials are protected unless there is explicit permission on the materials to use them.
• Engaging in defamation (harming another’s reputation by lies); uploading a worm, virus or other harmful form of programming or vandalism; participating in “hacking” activities or any form of unauthorized access to other computers, networks, or information systems.
• Disclosing or sharing the user’s password with others; impersonating another user; using one’s own software programs on the library’s computers; altering the Library’s computer settings; monitoring the electronic communications of others, damaging or modifying computer equipment or software. The use of chat rooms, electronic mail (other than free sites such as Hotmail) and instant messaging services is prohibited.
• Giving others private information about one’s self or others, including credit card numbers and social security numbers; arranging a face-to-face meeting with someone one has “met” on the computer network or Internet without a parent’s permission.
• Internet workstations cannot be used for any fraudulent or unlawful purposes, including any activities prohibited under any applicable federal, Pennsylvania, or local laws, including activities in violation of 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. Sec. 5903.
Misuse of library computers may result in the notification of authorities and/or suspension or loss of privileges to use computers. This policy will be reviewed periodically and updated as necessary.
Adopted March 21, 2000
Updated February 19, 2002
Updated August 20, 2002
Updated June 15, 2004
Memorials