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 acknowledgment and acceptance of this policy.
Internet Use Frequently Asked Questions
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
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:
- 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.
- The library reserves the right to charge for
printing from the Internet. All printing must be in compliance with
copyright laws.
- 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.
- Internet use will be managed in a manner
consistent with other Whatcom
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
Revision Approved by the Library Board of Trustees,
Revision Approved by the Library Board of Trustees,
Revision Approved by the Library Board of Trustees,
Revision Approved by the Library Board of Trustees,