Public computers are available for use by patrons with or without a library card on a first come first served biases.
Patrons may not reserve computers. Patrons are limited to a single one-hour session but may have that time extended if other computers are available for patron use.
The library may limit the number of individuals at a computer if it becomes disruptive to other patrons.
Headphones must be used to listen to sound while on the computers and the volume should be kept low enough as not to disturb other patrons.
The first two pages are free and cost $0.25 for each page after.
Filtering Content
The Library complies with all federal, state, and municipal laws governing the use of computers in libraries, including the guidelines established by the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA). As required by CIPA, in order to remain eligible for certain federal funding, the Library has implemented commercial filtering software on all of its Internet-accessible computer terminals and wireless network. Users should be aware, however, that all currently available filtering software results in a degree of both “under-blocking” (i.e., permitting access to certain material that falls within the foregoing categories) and “over-blocking” (i.e., denying access to certain constitutionally protected material that does not fall within the foregoing categories). The Library cannot and does not guarantee that the filtering software will block all obscenity, pornography, or materials that are harmful to minors. Nor can the Library guarantee that the filtering software will allow access to all sites that may have legitimate research or other value. An authorized employee may disable the blocking or filtering measure to enable access to websites for anyone 17 years of age or older.
Computer Use by Minors
Parents or legal guardians, not Library staff, must assume responsibility for deciding which Library resources are appropriate for their own children. No patron under the age of 7 may use the computers without a parent’s assistance and supervision. Children ages 8 years or older may use library computers on their own as long as they require minimal assistance from Library staff. It is strongly encouraged that parents or legal guardians’ supervise their children’s computer use (including their use of email, chat room and other forms of direct communications), even if library policy says they may use them unsupervised. The Library cannot act in loco parentis: only the child’s parents or legal guardians know what is best for them. Minors will be held to the same standards outlined in the “Inappropriate use” section, as adults.
Personal Information
The Library does not collect, use, or disseminate person information through its public computers. Statistics of use, as in 20 patrons used the public computer last week, may be kept. Software is installed to erase user information at the end of the day. The Library cannot control what information is given/collected when visiting websites.
Computer Assistance
Library staff are available to help patrons with their computer use to the degree that is does not prevent them assisting other patrons or completing necessary work. If a patron is not comfortable using a computer on their own or needs more assistance then time allows, they are encouraged to make an appointment with a library staff member so we can assist them one-on-one and give them our full attention.
Inappropriate Use
The following is considered inappropriate use of Library computers:
- Any use or behavior that would go against the Library’s Patron Code of Conduct.
- Any use that violates federal, New York, or local laws, including the transmission or receiving of child pornography or harmful material, fraud, “hacking” or downloading copyrighted material.
- Damaging or destruction of library computers and components.
Patrons that engage in inappropriate use of Library computers will face a varying degree of consequences based on the severity of the offense, ranging from ending their session to banning from using library computers for a duration of time.
Appeals
If a patron would like to contest their banning from using the Library’s computers, they may write a letter to the Library Director explaining the circumstances and requesting a review. The letter must contain the name and contact information of the patron. The Library Director will confirm receipt of the patron’s request and respond within 10 days with their decision.
History
Approved by the Board of Trustees: 12/2010
Updated: 2/2012, 7/2022