POLICY ON PUBLIC INTERNET USE
Please read this policy, and then indicate your willingness to comply with
it, or return to the Welcome screen.
Thank you
Internet Use Policy
Anyone desiring to use the library's Internet service shall read this policy
which will be posted at every public Internet computer. Use of the library's
Internet service shall be evidence of the user's acknowledgement and acceptance
of this policy.
Policy Statement:The Mission of Whatcom County Library
System is to bring the joy of reading and the world of ideas to every resident
in a safe and enriching environment. Whatcom
County Library System is committed to making information available for lifelong
learning and to offering convenient access to library resources throughout
the
world. Providing public access to the Internet is consistent with the library's
Mission because the Internet provides access to a wealth of information
from
around the world. Information available through the Internet enhances the size
and depth of the library's print collection.
Responsibilities
Of Users:
The Internet is currently an unregulated
medium. While the Internet offers access to materials that are enriching
to
users of all ages, the Internet also enables access to some materials that
may be offensive, disturbing, or illegal. There is no guarantee that information
obtained through the Internet is accurate. While the library offers the option
of filtered access, it cannot control the vast amount of materials
accessible through the
Internet
and
the library
will not
attempt to apply to the Internet the selection criteria used for library materials.
On the Internet the users are the selectors and are responsible for their
individual
choices. The library affirms the right of each individual to have access to
constitutionally protected materials and the library affirms the right and
responsibility
of parents and guardians to determine and monitor their children's use of the
Internet. The library assumes no responsibility for safety in use of email,
chat rooms and other communication. Changes to the setup or configuration of
the software or hardware is prohibited.
Privacy:
The library will take practical and
feasible steps to provide privacy for Internet users and to limit inadvertent
viewing of Internet materials by other library patrons. However, the library
cannot guarantee privacy of viewing and will not be responsible for inadvertent
exposure to materials that may be offensive, nor for any unauthorized disclosure,
use and dissemination of personal identification regarding minors.
Conditions Of Use:
1.
The library reserves the right to set time limits on the use of Internet
computers and to limit the number of people using a station at a given time.
2. The
library reserves the right to charge for printing from the Internet.
All printing must be in compliance with copyright laws.
3. Some
Internet sites are limited by content providers to usage by persons 18
or 21
years of age. Users shall comply with all age restrictions governing access
to Internet sites.
6. Internet
use will be managed in a manner consistent with other Whatcom County Library
System policies including the Disruptive Behavior Policy.
All users of the library's Internet
service agree to hold the library harmless for any and all claims, losses, damages,
obligations, or liabilities directly or indirectly relating to the use of the
Internet.
Failure to use the Internet service
appropriately and responsibly may result in revocation of Internet use privileges,
library privileges, and/or criminal prosecution.
Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees
July 22, 1997
Revision Approved by the Library Board of Trustees, July 20, 1999
Revision Approved by the Library Board of Trustees, November 19, 2002
Revision Approved by the Library Board of Trustees, May 20, 2003.
Revision Approved by the Library Board of Trustees, July 15, 2003.
If you agree to comply with this policy, please
continue.
If you cannot comply with this policy, please return
to the "Welcome" screen.
Thank you for your cooperation.
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