[Approved 3-3-1997; amended 10-4-1999; 12-2-2002; 11-10-2003; 10-3-2006]
A.
The internet allows users to connect to networks of resources outside
the library. It is one of many information sources available for library
patrons. The library encourages patrons to take advantage of this
free service.
B.
The South Hadley Public Library does not monitor and has no control
over the information accessed through the internet, nor does the library
have complete knowledge of what is on the internet. Information on
the internet may be reliable and current or it may be inaccurate,
out-of-date, or unavailable at times. Patrons access the internet
at their own discretion. The South Hadley Public Library cannot be
held responsible for the content of the internet. The library does
not control patron access to materials or protect patrons from information
they may find personally offensive or inappropriate.
C.
As with other library materials, a child's use of the internet
is the responsibility of the parent/legal guardian. Parents/Legal
guardians are responsible for ensuring their own minor children's
safety and security when using electronic mail, chat rooms, and other
forms of direct electronic communication. Parents/Legal guardians
should discuss their expectations for the use of the internet with
their minor children. The decision as to whether a minor child may
use the internet is up to the parent/legal guardian, not a governmental
authority.
D.
Staff will assist patrons with internet use as time and experience
permit. Staff will be glad to get patrons on the "Information Superhighway"
but as there are literally thousands of web sites, staff cannot be
experts on every one of them.
E.
Internet access will be available on a first-come/first-served basis,
with up to one hour allotted to each patron. The library reserves
the right to limit internet access at certain peak usage periods (e.g.,
after school, vacations, summer months), or grant additional time,
in order to provide fair and equal access to all. The library reserves
the right to institute an internet sign-up sheet or time management
software.
The library views access to the internet as a privilege that
has accompanying rules. The following are rules of conduct for using
the internet in the South Hadley Public Library:
A.
Internet computers will not be used for any illegal activity.
B.
Users will not violate MGL c. 272, § 31, the Harmful to
Minors Statute, which prohibits dissemination of material which is
harmful to minors or which is obscene; or dissemination or possession
of child pornography.
C.
Disclosing, using, or disseminating personal identity information
about minors is prohibited.
D.
Users will respect copyright laws and licensing agreements.
E.
Installation, downloading, or modification of software is prohibited.
F.
Downloading to the library computer's hard drives is prohibited.
G.
Alteration or destruction of library computers, data or attached
equipment in any way is prohibited.
H.
Users will not attempt to access restricted files or networks.
I.
Users will not attempt to disrupt library computers or networks in
any way.
J.
Users will respect the privacy of others.
K.
Users will not engage in libelous or slanderous activities or send
threatening, harassing or defamatory materials or messages.
L.
Inappropriate or disruptive behavior in the library or on its grounds
will not be tolerated.
The South Hadley Public Library does not offer e-mail accounts
to patrons but existing e-mail accounts such as those through Hot
Mail or Yahoo! can be accessed through the library's internet
computers. The library does not accept responsibility for the privacy
of cached (temporarily stored) messages left after a patron is finished
using the internet.
For printing, each page costs $0.10. Prompt payment is requested.
The library reserves the right to alter the price structure at any
time.
Library staff is authorized to take prompt and appropriate action
to enforce the rules of conduct and/or to prohibit the use of the
internet by patrons who fail to comply with the internet acceptable
use policy as stated or implied herein. Misuse of the computer or
internet access as described above will result in the loss of computer
privileges for up to 30 days. Subsequent violations may result in
a permanent ban from internet access. Appeals for reinstatement must
be made in writing to the Library Director, who shall have 45 days
to respond.
The South Hadley Public Library, including the Trustees and
the staff, and the Town of South Hadley are not liable for any negative
consequences that may result from using the South Hadley Public Library's
computer terminals. The above assume no responsibility and are not
liable for any direct or indirect damages arising from the use of
information found on the internet, or any communications sent through
the library's computers. Patrons use the library's computers
and the internet at their own risk.
