Michigan City Public Library Michigan City, Indiana Internet Computer Use Policy

Mission Statement of the Michigan City Public Library

The mission of the Michigan City Public Library is to provide a center for information, education, culture and recreation for all patrons throughout their life span, through its collections, programs and special services.

Disclaimer

The Michigan City Public Library makes no guarantees, either expressed or implied, with respect to the information available on the Internet, nor is the Library responsible for any misuse of copyright or software licensing agreements. The Library is not responsible for the interpretation of any information on the Internet nor for the content of that information. The Internet may contain material of a controversial nature. The Library will not censor access to material nor protect users from offensive / objectionable information. Parents of minor children must assume responsibility for their children's use of the Internet through the Library's connection.

I. GENERAL RULES

The Library will provide access to electronic information systems as is sufficient to fulfill its mission. Use of these systems shall be consistent with the Library's mission, goals, policies and procedures, and with local, state and federal laws. The Library expects that users of these systems shall not interfere with the systems' operation, integrity, or security. Additionally, the following rules govern use of all the Library's computer services:

A) The Library reserves the right to set rules, as needed, for these systems and their use.

B) Adding, modifying, or deleting any system element is prohibited.

C) Impeding a system's use through monopolization or unreasonable consumption of system resources is prohibited.

D) Use of the computers is on a first-come, first-served basis.

E) The Library does not provide e-mail services to patrons.

F) Library staff will assist patrons with computer use when possible.

G) The copyright law of the United States (Title 17 of the U.S. Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. The person using the Library's equipment is liable for any copyright infringement.

A) If, in the estimation of a staff member, the Internet site being viewed is causing or is likely to cause a disturbance, he or she can ask the patron to turn off the monitor or leave the web site.

B) There is an one (1) hour limit, Monday through Saturday when others are waiting.

C) There is a thirty (30) minute limit on Sundays when others are waiting.

D) The demand for use of the Library's Internet workstations may exceed the available supply. Therefore, it is necessary to manage Internet access fairly and equitably so that all patrons will have an equal opportunity to use the resource.

E) Internet access stations are for Internet use only. Internet access is not available through the Public Access Catalog (PAC).

A) There is a two (2) hour limit if others are waiting.

B) It is understood that all patrons using word processing have a base knowledge of how to use it.

A) Paper is sold for 10 cents a sheet.

B) The only paper approved for use in Library printers is supplied by the Library. Patrons may not use their own paper, letter head, stationery, etc. for printing.

I. Internet and word processing stations are for use for one person at a time.

If a second person is absolutely needed, the main user should ask library staff if an exception may be made. This person might be teaching another to use the Internet or word processing or explaining how they want something done. The computer service areas are designed for individuals working alone, not group activities.

II. Appropriate behavior is expected from children and adults.

A parent or responsible adult is expected to monitor the behavior of his/her child or children at all times, including while either is using the library's computer or related services. Although it is not appropriate for them to sit with the adult at a station unless the adult is teaching the child to use the system, the child must still be supervised by the accompanying adult.

If, in the estimation of staff, the child (or children) becomes unruly, disturbs other patrons, blocks aisles or access to other equipment, or abuses equipment, the accompanying adult will be asked to correct their behavior.

If the behavior continues to be a problem, both the children and the accompanying adult will be asked to leave the library.

You are welcome to borrow books and puzzles from the Youth Services area to provide constructive activities for your children. These books and puzzles must be returned to the Youth Services area.

We appreciate your cooperation in helping to make our computer service areas a more pleasant place for everyone.

BOARD APPROVED: August 29, 2002