Computer and Internet Acceptable Use Policy

The Chatham Area Public Library is committed to providing access to informational, educational, recreational, and cultural resources for Library users of all ages and backgrounds. The Library's computer system provides the opportunity to integrate electronic resources from information networks around the world with the Library's other resources. Consistent with the Library's mission and with professional principles of public librarianship, this Computer and Internet Acceptable Use Policy affirms the safeguarding of First Amendment rights, intellectual freedom, equity of access, and confidentiality of information about users and their use of information resources. All users are expected to comply with the guidelines in this policy and use electronic resources in the same responsible and courteous manner that is expected for all Library materials, services, and property.

This policy applies to all use of Chatham Area Public Library’s wired or wireless Internet services, whether privately-owned or Library-provided devices. The use of any Internet workstation and the wireless network in the Library constitutes an acceptance of this policy. Patrons reaffirm this agreement each time they access the Internet in the Library.

Access

• Access to the Internet and other electronic resources are available at no additional cost. However, all patrons will be charged for printouts and for the cost of repairing or replacing any equipment or software damaged by the patron.
• Two people may use an Internet terminal at a time.
• Users are limited to 120-minute sessions on the internet-connected computers. If there are no patrons awaiting access to the computers, sessions can be extended for 60 minutes for up to 5 times per day.
• Internet filters are not used.
• Laptops are available for in-library use when a state-issued ID is held at the Adult Services Desk.

Minor’s Access to the Electronic Resources

As indicated on the application for all Library cards, parents or guardians assume all responsibility for the minor’s selection and use of materials. Children who are 13 years of age and older may access electronic resources. Children 12 years of age and under may access any electronic resources if under direct parental/guardian supervision while utilizing the Internet/computer.

Library policy gives parents or guardians the right and responsibility to restrict their children's and only their own children's use of Library resources, including computers and the Internet. The Library respects the right of parents to determine what it is appropriate for their children to read, hear, and view, but the Library cannot enforce these rules, which may be different for each family in our community. Parents are encouraged to supervise and to participate actively in their children's computer and Internet use. The Library does not act in loco parentis, i.e. it does not have the same role in supervising children that schools have, and it cannot substitute its judgment for that of parents or enforce parents' decisions about their children's Internet use.

Assistance

Library staff may help identify starting points and sites for searches appropriate to the Library’s mission and service roles. Users are encouraged to evaluate the validity and appropriateness of information accessed via the Internet. Whenever possible, the Library staff will assist patrons in making judgments about the reliability or currency of certain types of Internet information, but the ultimate responsibility for determining the worthiness of Internet information rests with the patron.

Privacy and Security

In keeping with library policies, and consistent with state and federal laws, the library protects users' rights to privacy and the confidentiality of their library records. Insofar as possible, the library avoids collecting or maintaining records that could compromise the privacy of users. However, electronic communication by its nature may not be secure. The library does not guarantee the privacy or security of any online transaction. Additionally, computers are located in open, public spaces in the Library, and each user should exercise caution when using the Internet to avoid unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of personal information.

Acceptable Use

All users of electronic information resources such as the Internet are expected to use these resources in a responsible manner, consistent with the educational and informational purposes for which they are provided. Failure to comply with the following rules may result in loss of computer privileges, loss of Library privileges and criminal prosecution.

Rules governing use of library computers:

• Library computers and the Internet must be used in a responsible manner, consistent with the Library’s Patron Code of Conduct Policy. All users must be quiet, courteous toward others, and respectful of Library equipment.
• Any activity which violates Federal, state, or local laws is prohibited on Library computers and networks.
• Users shall not use Library computers and internet to engage in hacking of other computers; fraudulent conduct, which includes, but is not limited to, disguising or falsifying sources of electronic mail and other electronic communications with the intent of misleading, defrauding or harassing others.
• Users shall not use Library computers and internet to display or distribute child pornography or other vulgar and obscene materials.
• Users shall not use Library computers and internet to display or distribute libelous and/or and slanderous materials.
• No food or beverages are allowed near the computers.
• Time limits on computer workstations and bandwidth limits on wireless access may be enforced to ensure that all patrons have the opportunity to use computer and Internet resources.
• Users may not modify Library hardware or software, change configurations, or attempt to access non-public files or accounts using Library workstations or the wireless network. Users may not attempt to intercept, monitor, disrupt, or impede other users' communications on the wireless network or to access or alter other users' data or software.
• Users may not use personal software, download or install software or executable files, or bookmark sites on Library workstations. Users are encouraged to suggest software for Library computers to Library staff. No personal documents or files may be saved to the desktop or c-drive of any Library computer.
• Users may not violate software license agreements or infringe on copyrighted material. United States Copyright Law (Title 17, U.S. Code) prohibits the unauthorized reproduction or distribution of copyrighted materials, except as permitted by the principle of "fair use." This includes most electronic information sources. Users may not copy or distribute many electronic materials without the explicit permission of the copyright holder. Users are responsible for any consequences of copyright infringement.
• The Library is committed to providing an environment free from sexual harassment. Internet users are asked to help by refraining from displaying material on Library or customer computers which may be interpreted as part of an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment. Internet users should not attempt to show displayed material to passersby.

In addition to the prohibitions listed above, misuse also includes but is not limited to:

• Sending, receiving, or displaying text or graphics containing .
• Using computers to gain access to the Library’s internal network or computer system or to any other restricted network or computer system.
• Using computer accounts, access codes, or network identification numbers without authorized permission.
• Violating another user’s privacy.
• Attempting to alter software configurations or to cause degradation of system performance.
• Installing or downloading any software or executable file.
• Tampering with, destroying or damaging equipment, software, or data belonging to the library.
• Failing to log-in using your own Library card number or guest card number

Policy Enforcement

Any individual who does not fulfill user responsibilities is considered in violation of the Library’s Code of Conduct policy. The user’s Internet access and use of other library resources may be suspended for a specific time period, according to state law and library policy. A suspension letter will be mailed to the offender, or, for children 15 years and younger, to parents or guardians. An individual who uses the Internet for illegal purposes may also be subject to criminal prosecution by local, state, or Federal authorities.

Liability

Use of any of the Library’s computing equipment and networks is at the sole risk and discretion of the user. This means that it is the user, and not the library, who would be responsible for any damage to the user’s own computers, devices, or equipment while connected to the library’s wired or wireless networks or while connected to any of the library’s equipment. The library takes reasonable steps to secure its networks from unauthorized access. In using a public computer however, an individual must be aware that the security of information or transactions while using the library’s equipment or networks is not guaranteed. Internet users are responsible for the web sites they access and use the Internet at their own risk. The Library does not guarantee privacy of any Internet sessions, nor is it responsible for the security of information transmitted and received during any Internet sessions. Any injury or damages incurred by users of Library Internet stations or the Library’s connection to the Internet are the sole responsibility of the user. Users shall hold the Library harmless and indemnified for any injury or damages, claims, causes of action, judgments, attorney’s fees, and court costs arising out of the user’s use of the Library’s computing equipment and networks.

LEGAL REF.:              75 ILCS 16/30-60, 47 CFR § 54.520 (Children’s Internet Protection Act)

CROSS REF.:             4-105, 5-10, 5-15

ADOPTED:                 MARCH 20, 2000

AMENDED:                MARCH 15, 2004

AMENDED:                AUGUST 15, 2005

AMENDED:                JUNE 15, 2009

AMENDED:                AUGUST 18, 2014

AMENDED:                MAY 17, 2021