Computer and Internet Use Policy
Purpose
The Public Library of Johnston County and Smithfield (PLJCS) is committed to providing free and equal
access to the resources and material community members need to be informed, empowered, and engaged. Technology, including computers and the internet, is vital to accomplishing this mission. The purpose of this policy is to establish regulations regarding both computer use and internet access at PLJCS.
Overview
The Internet, as an information resource, enables the library to provide information beyond the confines of its own collection. It allows access to ideas, information, and commentary from around the world. However, it is an unregulated medium. Though it offers access to a wealth of material that is personally, professionally, and culturally enriching, it also enables access to materials that may be unreliable, offensive, disturbing, and/or illegal. The library has no control of the Internet and its resources, and cannot be held responsible for its content.
The library upholds and affirms the right of each individual to have access to a wide variety of materials. The library also affirms the right and responsibility of parents to determine and monitor their children's use of library materials and resources.
Guidelines and Responsibilities
All users of library Internet accessible computers must adhere to this policy and the following guidelines and responsibilities:
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Before each use of the library computers, patrons must agree to abide by this Computer and Internet Use Policy.
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Johnston County residents may sign in to a public computer using their library account. In the event that a resident does not have their library card or number, a request for a computer pass from the Patron Services desk can be made.
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The library reserves the right to impose time limits on computer use as demand necessitates and to charge for printouts.
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To ensure parental guidance in children's use of the Internet, children aged ten and under require parental permission and adult supervision.
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Users may not send, receive, or display material considered obscene under North Carolina or federal law.
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Users must be careful not to expose themselves to dangerous situations. Users must be cautious when using e-mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, discussion groups, newsgroups, game rooms, and all other forms of communication.
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Users may not engage in unlawful activities or misrepresentation. Users may not attempt unauthorized access (including hacking) to any computer system.
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Users may not make unauthorized disclosure of, use of, or dissemination of a minor’s personal information by means of the Internet, e-mail, or any other electronic technology. A minor must have the authorization of a parent or guardian to disclose personal information.
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In accordance with current state and federal laws, all library computers that connect to the Internet use a technology protection measure to filter and block access to images that are obscene, pornographic, or harmful to minors. Filters are not 100% effective and may not filter images that should be blocked, and conversely, may block images that should not be blocked.
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Users may not alter computer hardware or software except as permitted by security protocols in place on the computer.
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Users are responsible for saving their work to an external drive or web-based resource. Any files created or saved to the computer are erased after each session. Flash drives are available for purchase. The library is not responsible for crashes that lose saved or unsaved work.
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Internet use will be managed in a manner consistent with the library's Code of Conduct Policy.
Failure to use the library’s Internet accessible computers appropriately and responsibly, as defined in this policy, will result in revocation of Internet use privileges and/or library use privileges. Unacceptable use that is illegal may result in criminal prosecution as well.