Computer/Internet Use & Agreement Policy

 ACCESS TO INTERNET RESOURCES:
           To fulfill its mission of providing people of all ages with materials to meet their informational, educational and recreational needs, the Lakeville Public Library provides access to the Internet because of its value as an educational tool.
           The Internet is a vast global network that provides diverse resources but not all sources provide accurate or current information. The Lakeville Public Library cannot be held responsible for any information found on the Internet.  Patrons must use their own judgment for choosing and evaluating the information they find.
            The Lakeville Public Library staff, The Board of Trustees, nor the town is liable for any negative consequences that may occur as a result of using the Library’s internet connection. The Library provides Internet access in the Reference area, Young Adult department, and Children’s Room.
            In the Adult Library, Internet access is available to users 18 and older; however, persons under 18 may use these computers with permission from a parent or legal guardian.  Please note that giving your child Internet permission entitles him or her to full, unrestricted access to the Internet—the Library does not use screening software and can not supervise your child’s access.
            Internet access for children is available in the Children’s Library.  However children must be continuously accompanied by a parent of guardian while on the Internet.  Adults are not allowed to use the internet connection in the children’s room without a child present.

 All patrons using the Internet must do so in a responsible manner:
            Patrons using the Internet are expected to comply with the Library’s Rules of Conduct which prohibits disruptive or illegal behavior.  In accordance with federal and state laws and regulations, patrons are not permitted to use terminals for illegal, unauthorized or unethical purpose, including, accessing legally obscene material, harassment or stalking. 

Conditions and Terms of use in the Library:
            All users must accept the library’s policy at login, including users under 18 years old.  Children age 11 or under must be accompanied by an adult.  Valid SAILS library cards are required to sign in for a session.  Sessions last for one hour.  A user can remain on the Internet in increments of 15 minutes if no one is signed up after them.  The Library reserves the right to limit the number of times a patron can use the Internet in a week.  Illegal activities or any other activity intended to disrupt service or equipment are prohibited. Due to library scheduling, Internet trained staff may not always be available.
           Computer users must respect the privacy of library patrons around them.  Disruptive behavior or behavior which is disturbing to other library patrons will be dealt with according to the Lakeville Public Library’s code of conduct.  All of the Library computer terminals are located in open areas of the building and sites accessed must be limited to those appropriate for viewing in a public space.  All computer privileges will be revoked for those who do not comply. Users, or their parents in case of minors, are responsible for any damage to hardware or software and will be held liable for repairs and/or replacement costs.  All sessions end 5 minutes before the library closes. 

SUPERVISING CHILDREN’S USE:
            Internet access in all areas of the Library is unfiltered and therefore allows access to ideas, information and images beyond the scope of the Library’s collection.  The public library, unlike schools, does not serve in loco parentis (in place of a parent).  Librarians cannot provide constant supervision of children as they explore the Internet.  Ultimately it is the responsibility of the parents and adult caregivers to guide the Internet activities of their children.  For this reason, all children 11 years and under must be accompanied by an adult. 

YOUNG ADULTS:
            Youth under 18 must have parental consent in the form of a signed application before using the computer without supervision.  Those under 18 will get a small sticker on their library card once the parent has signed the permission form; this card must be presented every time the youth wishes to use the computer.

 The Library may suspend or terminate your computer privileges if you violate the Library’s rules or policies, or in the judgment of a Librarian, you fail to use the computers in a responsible manner.