Internet Access Policy

In response to advances in technology and the changing needs of the community, the Library develops resources and services that meet the cultural, educational, informational, and recreational needs of its diverse community by providing access to electronic information. Electronic databases and networks such as the Internet supplement and sometimes replace traditional printed resources. In addition, electronic search skills are increasingly important to patrons in their various life roles.

The Library does not select the material available on the Internet. The Library is not accountable for the accuracy, content, nature, or quality of information obtained through the Internet, nor does the Library endorse viewpoints presented on the Internet. As with other library materials, the responsibility for determining what is valuable or appropriate lies with the library patron or, in the case of minors, their parents or guardians.

The educational and informational use of electronic resources may take precedence over any recreational use of those same resources when their limited availability requires that the Library ration their use. Otherwise, all Internet resources are provided equally to all patrons. Users are advised to refrain from using these resources for illegal activities. The following prohibitions and caveats apply to both adults and minors:

a. Accessing material that meets the definitions of pornography, most especially child pornography, is prohibited. Minors shall not access material “harmful to minors.” Blatantly offensive visual or text-based materials constitute potential sources of sexual harassment to other patrons and to library staff and will not be tolerated.

b. Attempts to gain unauthorized access to computer systems or otherwise compromise system security (“hacking”) are prohibited.

c. Users are advised to exercise caution in divulging personal information through direct electronic communications, as doing so can compromise personal safety and privacy. Unauthorized disclosure of personal information about a third party is prohibited.

d. Accessing chat lines is prohibited. Computers are a scarce public resource, and in allocating computer time, this use is not a priority within the library’s mission.

Library staff will intercede when this policy is violated and violators will be asked to leave. Violation of this policy may result in discipline including, but not limited to, loss of access to the computers and, in appropriate cases, exclusion from the library. When and where applicable, law enforcement agencies may be involved.

Adopted by the Board of Library Trustees May 21 ; Revised November 21, 2002.

NOTE: The North of Boston Library Exchange (NOBLE), from which we receive our Internet access, also has its own internet usage policy, which applies to patrons using the Internet in the Beebe Library.