Hearst Free Library Internet Use Policy and Guidelines

The library offers free internet access to all patrons if the policy is followed. When the policy has been broken, then an individual may be denied access.

The library staff will not monitor or have control over the information accessed through the Internet.

There is sexually explicit material and other information resources available on the Internet which may be considered controversial or inappropriate.

Additionally, not all sources on the Internet provide accurate, complete, or current information. Patrons must exercise judgment and evaluate for themselves the validity of the information found online.

1. Parents or guardians, not the library or its staff, are responsible for the Internet information selected and/or accessed by their children. Parents are advised to supervise their children's Internet sessions and must sign an Internet use agreement for their children who are minors.
2. Internet access computers on the main floor of the Library can be used for a 30-minute time period during library hours; they are available on a first-come, first-served basis. If no one is waiting, an additional 30 minutes will be allowed. When usage is high, there will be a one hour per day limit for any one patron.
3. Internet access computers on the second floor of the Library can be used for a one hour time period during library hours; they are available on a first-come, first-served basis. If no one is waiting, additional time may be allowed. When usage is high, there will be a one hour per day limit for any one patron. Computers on the second floor of the library are reserved for patrons who are 18 years of age or older.
4. There is a $.10 per page charge for printing.
5. A user may not alter the settings of the Internet workstations.
6. A user may not use or install his/her own software. This is to help prevent computer viruses which are common on public computers.
7. Hearst Free Library is not responsible for damage to a patron's disks or computer, loss of data, or damage or liability that may occur from patron use of the library's computer.
8. Hearst Free Library abides by the "Electronic Bill of Rights" which is also posted at the workstation.

Approved by the Hearst Free Library Board of Trustees in 2000. It is due for an update this year.

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