Hailey Public Library

Introduction

The Hailey Public Library provides public computer access to the Internet as an informational, educational and recreational resource. However, the Internet is currently not subject to any regulation. While the Internet does contain a wealth of such material, it also provides access to sites containing material that some patrons will find offensive and that may be illegal. The Library does not monitor and has no control over materials obtained on the Internet, and cannot be held responsible for its content. The Library cannot control access to materials or protect patrons from materials they may find offensive.

The Hailey Public Library Board of Directors endorses the .American Library Association.s Statement on Access to Electronic Information, Services, and Networks: An Interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights.. http://www.ala.org/alaorg/oif/electacc.html

Computer User Policy

All Library users have access to the Library Internet after signing the Internet Use Sign in Sheet which indicates agreement with the Libraries policies. If a user does not have a Library card but wants to use the computers they can purchase a "Computer Use Card" for a fee of $21.20 per household per year, or pay $2.00 for a total of two hours per day.

The children.s computers are available for use upon signing in and with the same time limits as stated above. Internet access is not available on these computers.

The library also provides a computer with a fifteen (15) minute time limit per person per day. This service is free of charge to the public.

Staff Assistance

. The Library staff does not provide Internet training, but will assist patrons as time permits. If patrons have specific questions about the Internet, circulating books and reference books are available. Internet classes are available at various locations throughout the Wood River Valley.

User Responsibility

. The library permits no more than two people at each user station. Both must be registered and pay fees if non-resident.

. Patrons may not use personal software, or alter or attach equipment other than memory sticks, to the Library's hardware.

. While respecting individual users' rights to privacy, Library staff reserve the right to monitor use of Internet work stations to ensure compliance with this policy. Staff may ask users to remove themselves from Library equipment if they observe any behavior that they judge to be in conflict with this policy.

. The Library does not use filtering software. It is the responsibility of the parent, or guardian to determine what is appropriate for children and young adults under the age of 18, subject to the restrictions of this policy. The Library requires written permission for minors to use the Internet.

. The Library urges parents to become familiar with the Internet and discuss with their children what safe and appropriate use of the Internet is.

Time Limits

. Patrons must sign in at the front desk prior to using the Internet stations. Internet stations are available on a first come first served basis. Reservations are not accepted.

. Individual use of the Internet stations will be limited to a period of 30 minutes. To facilitate planning, sessions will begin and end on the half-hour.

. Use is for the computer signed in on. No switching to a different machine without reregistering.

Downloading

. Patrons may download to a preformatted floppy disk, USB, or thumb drive only. Downloading to the hard drive is restricted.

. Patrons must provide their own disks, USB or thumb drive, or may purchase a diskette from the Library for $2.00 each.

. The Library is not responsible for any loss or damage to personal disks.

. Users are cautioned to use virus-checking programs.

Printing

. Printers are available for patron use. The first five pages are free and ten cents per page thereafter payable at the front desk when you pick up your paper.

Chat Rooms

. The Library strongly recommends that children under 18 not use chat; however the Library cannot monitor this use.

. It is the parent's responsibility to supervise what their children access on the Internet.

E-Mail

. The Library does not offer electronic mail accounts.

. Patron may access their e-mail if they can access it via the web.

Ethical Use

. Internet computers may only be used for legal purposes. It is the responsibility of the user, not the library, to insure that patron use does not violate state, federal or local laws.

. Unacceptable uses include, but are not limited to: harassment of other users; libeling or slandering other users; destruction of or damage to equipment, software, or data belonging to the Library or other users; spamming; disruption or unauthorized monitoring of electronic communications; unauthorized copying of copyright-protected material.

. Users are prohibited from using any Library equipment to access material that is obscene, child pornography, or "harmful to minors" (consistent with any applicable state or local law).

. While the Library's role includes the provision of information that supports local businesses and commercial ventures, the Library may not be utilized as a significant base for commercial establishment or specific permanent vendors.

Violations and consequences

The library may deny or restrict use by individuals who violate any part of this policy. No user's access will be permanently revoked without due process will include, but not limited to, a written report of the incident from the director and the user to the library board. The Board, within the time frame of two meetings, will issue a response and/or decision.

These guidelines are subject to change. Adequate notice will be given in writing and prominently displayed.