Coastal Plain Regional Library System
Computer Use Policy
Revised 2006
As part of its mission to provide access to information for their educational, entertainment and professional needs, the Coastal Plain Regional Library System provides computers for use by its patrons.
Failure to follow library system policies may result in temporary or permanent suspension of computer privileges. The library system has formulated procedures which allow patrons to appeal complaints regarding computer use, or the library system’s computer policies.
The library system has taken a number of steps to prevent access to materials generally found to be inappropriate for or harmful to minors. Inappropriate for or harmful to minors is defined as any visual images that are extremely violent, gory or horrific in nature or may be related to sex or bodily functions. The definition also includes images that are considered obscene as determined by local, state and federal laws, or contain pornography including sex acts or sexually oriented material. The library system also attempts to prevent access by minors to potentially harmful sites on the Internet; these include such things as e-mail and chat rooms to communicate with strangers.
These steps include the following safeguards:
1. The parent or legal guardian has sole responsibility for supervising his or her minor child’s Internet activity.
2. The library system employs Internet filtering software, which is designed to limit inappropriate and potentially harmful content, on all library system computers. The library system cannot, however, guarantee that the filtering software will block all such material.
3. The library system makes available information for parents and legal guardians to educate them about potential harm to children who access the Internet.
4. The library prohibits the viewing of images defined above as inappropriate for or harmful to minors.
Filters occasionally block sites and materials which are not prohibited by the library system’s policies. Library system personnel will override the filtering program for adult patrons at their request. Patrons need not provide an explanation for the request to disengage the filter.
Library Internet computers may not be used to participate in any illegal activity.
The library system is not responsible for Internet materials that are inaccurate, out of date, illegal and possibly offensive.
Patrons assume all liability for violations of the Copyright Law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code), which prohibits the reproduction, adaptation, public performance and display of some materials.
Patrons who willfully damage library equipment and software will be held financially responsible. In addition, they may be liable for criminal or civil penalties under the Georgia Computer Systems Protection Act (Section 16-9-90 of the Georgia Code).
Patrons may not bring outside software to install on library system computers. Also, computer programs may not be downloaded from the Internet onto library system computers.
The library system assumes no responsibility for damage to disks or other losses as a result of computer use. While the library system constantly strives to maintain its computer system and components, it cannot guarantee all computer equipment and software will be in working condition at all times.
The Coastal Plain Regional Library System reserves the right to regulate use of workstations if necessary in order to ensure equitable access for all patrons.
The library provides printers for patrons’ use at a nominal cost. Computer printouts cost 15 cents per page for every page printed. Color copiers are available at most library locations. Costs for color printing vary by location.
Procedures:
Internet computers will be available on a first-come, first-served basis with one or more computers limited to two hours per user per day to provide maximum access for all patrons.
Computers specifically intended for children will be limited to minors in order to provide appropriate access.
No more than two (2) people may be at a computer at a time.