Internet Access and Acceptable Use Policy
Philosophy
Internet use at Green Tree Public Library is an extension of the library’s commitment to meeting the community’s information needs. In addition to using the Internet as an information resource, the library also seeks to provide the opportunity for Internet use, with limitations, to members of the public. 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 globe. In introducing the Internet as an information resource, the library’s goal is to enhance its existing collection in size and depth and, as a public access agency, give the opportunity to anyone who wishes to participate in navigating the Internet.
Acceptable Use
The Green Tree Public Library does not monitor and has no control over the information accessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its content. The internet is a global resource with a highly diverse user population and information content. Library patrons use the Internet at their own risk and discretion. The Green Tree Public Library cannot be responsible for the quality or accuracy of any information found on the Internet.
Internet resources accessible through the library are provided equally to all library users. Parent or guardian, no the library staff, are responsible for the Internet information selected and/or accessed by their children.
Adults using computers in the presence of children will be asked to close a website that is depicting or discussing information that is “harmful to minor.” Adults may be advised that while accessing and viewing sexual material is within the law for an adult, the risk of exposure to minors and the consequences of being “harmful to minors” are significant. When children are in proximity or even if another adult is expressly offended, the patron viewing such materials may be asked to close a website and select a more appropriate resource or location wini8n or outside of the library. Children or adults who repeatedly disregard this policy and the request of the staff may be asked to leave the library building.
Green Tree Public Library will continue to offer its patron access to “chat rooms’ and e-mail. There is a potential for abuse when such discussion may become obscene or “harmful to minors.” When this occurs, patron may be asked by staff to close this site.
Internet workstations must be used in a responsible manner, respecting the rights of others and taking care with the use of the equipment. Workstation cannot be used for fraudulent or unlawful purposes, including any activities prohibited under any applicable federal, state or local laws.
Guidelines for Public Internet Use
In an effort to ensure that the use of the Internet is consistent with the mission of the Green Tree Public Library, the following regulations shall apply.
- Users must have a valid library card within Allegheny County. Out of town visitors may use a guest card provided by a library staff member to access computer resources.
- The library reserves the right to establish procedures that make the workstations available on a first come first served sign-in basis.
- Internet use will be managed in a manner consistent with the library’s policy on acceptable use: Workstations must be used in a responsible manner, respecting the rights of other users. Users may not make any attempt to damage computer equipment or software. Computer and Internet settings may not be changed. Users may not use the network to make unauthorized entry into other computational, informational or communications services or resources. Users may not invade the privacy of others or engage in any activity that is harassing or defamatory.
- Users should be aware that the Internet is not a secure medium and that third parties may be able to obtain information regarding users’ activities on the Internet. Access, use of dissemination or information via the Internet in the library, is the responsibility of the user. In the case of minors, it is the join responsibility of the user and the parent or legal guardian. Green Tree Public Library will not release information on the use of specific Internet resources by members of the public except as required by law or necessary for the proper operation of the library.
Compliance with Library Policy and Guidelines
- Violation of the policies and regulations that govern the use of the library’s Internet resource may result in suspension or loss of the privilege to use these resources.
- Any illegal activity involving the library’s Internet resources or equipment will be subject to prosecution by the appropriate authorities.
- The library reserves the right to take appropriate action to ensure compliance.
- This policy is subject to periodic review by the Board of Trustees.
Glossary
The U.S. Federal Courts and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania State Law have set forth meaning of “obscenity” and what is “harmful to minors.”
“Obscenity” is limited to bestiality and child pornography.
“Harmful to minors” involves materials or performances that involve explicit sexual materials that depict nudity, sexual conduct or sadomasochistic abuse and appeal predominantly to prurient, shameful or morbid interests, is offensive to prevailing standards in the adult community and taken as a whole lacks serious literary, artistic, political, education or scientific value for minors.
Pennsylvania Obscenity Statute—18 Pa. C. S. 5903
Approved 10-21-03
Revised 10-18-05