About > About the Library > Library Policies > Internet & Computer Use Policy

Internet & Computer Use Policy

November 2023

The Jefferson County Public Library (the Library) offers access to its computers and internet sources as part of its mission:

• to obtain and use information in a variety of formats;

• to pursue lifelong learning;

• to explore recreational interests; and

• to better understand personal and regional heritage.

The Library recognizes that the internet makes available useful and entertaining information on a wide variety of topics. The Library also acknowledges that the internet includes material that some people will find undesirable or objectionable for themselves or their children. The Board of Trustees has established the Internet and Computer Use Policy to ensure appropriate and effective use of this resource.

Inappropriate Use

Inappropriate uses include but are not limited to:

• disrupting network systems or intentionally damaging, destroying or misusing equipment

• unlawful or malicious activity

• misrepresentation of oneself or the Library

• viewing sexually explicit material that appeals to prurient interests

• using abusive or objectionable language or images in public or private messages

• accessing inappropriate materials

• violating copyright laws

Resultant Penalties

Because the Library is a public space, the staff has the right to end an internet session when the Internet and Computer Use Policy is violated. Computer and internet access may be suspended or revoked by the Library at any time, without prior notice or hearing, for violation of the conditions of use set forth in this document. The Library will be the sole arbiter of what constitutes abusive conduct or violation of this Internet and Computer Use Policy.

Users should be aware that the inappropriate use of electronic information resources can be a violation of local, state, and federal laws and can lead to prosecution.

Consequences of Violations:

• 1st Violation: Depending on the severity of the violation, the Library Director may issue:

  • a verbal or written warning or

  • up to a 6 month suspension of computer and internet privileges

• 2nd Violation: A suspension of privileges for at least 6 month and no greater than 1 year

• 3rd Violation: Permanent revocation of privileges

Once per year, a patron may petition the Library Director for reinstatement of their computer and internet privileges. After petitioning the Library Director, the patron may petition the Board of Trustees.

Downloading of Materials

Users must download material to their own external storage device; such as a USB flash drive, not to the computer hard-drives.

Time Limit

Computer time is on a first-come, first-served basis. Use of public computers may be limited to 30 minute increments. There is a daily limit of two hours per user. Staff may override the daily limit if it would not impact other patrons' ability to use the computers and internet.

Eligibility for Use

The user must agree and accept this policy to use the Library's computers, internet, and/or Wi-Fi. A valid Evergreen card is required for use of public computers. Non-residents or visitors will be issued a guest card. Use of someone else's Library card is prohibited.

Assistance in Using Computers

Library staff does not provide technical help or troubleshooting. Library staff may provide limited assistance in locating information or searching any of the Library's online databases. Patrons requiring more guidance are encouraged to schedule an appointment with a staff member.

Wireless

The Library provides unsecured wireless internet access for public use. The Library does not provide personal wireless devices or technical support for privately owned wireless devices.

Disclaimer

The Library makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the service it provides and will not be responsible for any damages suffered, including loss of data from delays, non-deliveries, mis-deliveries, service interruptions, or equipment failure.

The Library is not responsible for direct, indirect, or consequential damages related to the use of information accessed through the Library's internet service or for damages related to the operation of, or failure of, the filtering software, or for its circumvention by users.

Electronic files should not be considered confidential. When necessary, such files may be used as evidence in criminal investigations and/or prosecutions. To ensure patrons' privacy and confidentiality of library records, the Library will not disclose personally identifiable information about library users except to law enforcement authorities as required by law.

Filtering

Federal law requires the Library to use filtering software. The Library uses a technology protection measure which blocks or filters internet access to some internet sites that are not in accordance with the library policy. No filter can guarantee total success in this objective.

As the law requires, the Library will provide unfiltered internet access to persons 17 or older who request it for bono fide research or other lawful purpose.

Library staff will not monitor an individual's internet use except as it may be required to ensure compliance with library policy and/or procedures.

Children’s Internet Safety

As with other library services and materials, parents/guardians of minor children are responsible for supervising their children's use of internet resources at the Library. The Library complies with the Children's Internet Protection Act. The Library recommends that parents/guardians teach children to avoid providing personal identification information online, as well as exercising caution when communicating using the internet, electronic mail, chat rooms, and other forms of direct electronic communication.