Internet Policy
The Hillsdale Free Public Library strives to provide free access to print and digital resources to meet the community’s information, education, and recreation needs. The Internet provides access to a vast amount of information that can be enriching and enlightening. The Library makes available both computers and public wireless access to meet that need.
Computers are available on a first come first serve basis. The Library reserves the right to establish procedures for implementing time limits and/or sign-ups. The library reserves the right to end sessions at any time.
The Library maintains no record of individuals using the Internet. The MAC address of devices connecting to the wireless network may be recorded and may be subject to subpoena. The Library may keep a record of users violating the Internet Use Policy.
Disclaimers
Users are cautioned that the Internet is an unregulated medium and the content and images may be inaccurate, biased, or offensive. Each individual must determine the appropriateness and usefulness of the information found. The library is not responsible nor has any control over content.
The Library cannot and shall not guarantee the security and privacy of information transferred over the public network. Users are cautioned against the transmission of sensitive personal information such as financial, medical or legal data. The Library network is an open network.
The public computers are used by many individuals throughout the day. Users are cautioned to log completely out of personal accounts or services. The Library is not responsible for hijacked accounts, passwords, or loss of other personal information and / or identity.
User Responsibilities
Users are prohibited from modifying any library computer settings even for temporary use.
Users of either library computers or public wi-fi must adhere to all laws regarding copyright infringement. It is prohibited to transmit or receive copyrighted material in violation of U.S. Copyright Law (Title 17, U.S. Code). Use of the Internet for activities that violate local, state or federal laws is prohibited, including viewing pornography, committing fraud, hacking, harassing others, or libel. Users may not misrepresent themselves when using the library’s Internet access.
Any problems with the computers should be immediately reported to a library staff member.
Users are responsible for maintaining their own virus and/or malware protection on their devices.
Child Safety
As with all other library materials, parents or guardians should be aware that they are responsible for what their children access via the Internet. The library affirms parents’ rights to direct and/or oversee their children’s Internet activity. Families are encouraged to discuss guidelines and limitations of Internet use in accordance with their own family values.
No filtering software is installed on any library computers. Parents are particularly cautioned that unsupervised children may see things that the parent finds objectionable. Children should either be accompanied by a parent/caregiver or provided with guidelines for Internet use. The library staff are not responsible for screening what is acceptable to children.
Offensive Material
The Internet computers are located in a public space and users of all ages and sensibilities can easily view the screens. Although constant monitoring is not possible, the library staff reserves the right to request that a user exit a website if another user expresses concern or if the staff member judges the material to be inappropriate for public viewing. Users who fail to abide by this policy will be subject to suspension of their library privileges. Individuals who become argumentative or refuse to log-off when asked to do so by Library staff will have Internet access privileges suspended.
The Library is confident that individuals will use sound judgment as to what is acceptable to fellow community members.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Hillsdale Free Public Library – May 9 , 2016.