Acceptable Computer Use Policy
The Unity Public Library is dedicated to providing unbound access to ideas and information to all of its users. In pursuit of that mission, the library provides free access to the internet through public computers and an open wireless network.
The internet offers access to a wealth of information that can be personally, professionally, and culturally enriching; however, not all information available via the internet is accurate, current, or complete. Users are encouraged to exercise critical judgment in evaluating the validity of information accessed via the internet, and to be courteous to fellow patrons when choosing what is appropriate to view in the library’s public space. Please keep in mind that the library must be shared by patrons of all ages, backgrounds, and sensibilities. Individuals are asked to respect the sensibilities of others when accessing potentially offensive information and images.
Filtering and Objectionable Material
In order to comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act, the Unity Public Library is required to employ an internet filter on the library network. Given the nature of how information becomes accessible online, the library cannot and does not guarantee that the filter will block all objectionable material. The filter may also over-block material that is not considered objectionable.
Adults can override the filter at any time by requesting a code from a member of the library staff. Minors (patrons 17 and under) can request that the filter be overridden for a particular webpage at the discretion of the library staff. The library encourages parents and guardians in their efforts to guide their children’s access to information, and urges parents to discuss the use of the internet with their children in relation to family values and boundaries, and to monitor their children’s use of the internet while at the library if they are concerned.
User Privacy
The library is strongly committed to user privacy, but when using a library computer, complete privacy cannot be guaranteed. The library maintains no record of what individuals view, and, to the extent that it is feasible, each user’s information is erased at the end of their session. However, users are cautioned that because security in an electronic environment such as the internet cannot be guaranteed, all transactions, files, and communication are vulnerable to unauthorized access and use and, therefore, should be considered public. The library’s network does not protect your machine from viruses or third party eavesdropping.
Acceptable Use
All patrons are asked to meet these expectations for using the library’s internet connection:
- Use library computer resources and network for lawful purposes only.
- Do not tamper with library computers, systems or settings in any way.
- Be mindful of the sensibilities of others when accessing potentially offensive information and images.
- Exercise good judgment and safety measures when using email, chat rooms, social media, or other electronic communications.
- Make ethical decisions around disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal information online.
- Respect intellectual property rights when accessing copyrighted materials.
If you do not comply with these rules, you will be held liable for any damage and your privilege to use the library’s computer resources may be revoked. The library shall have no liability for any damages, direct or indirect, occurring as a result of the use of library electronic resources.
Staff Assistance
Library staff are happy to assist you with using library computers and digital resources. Please report any problems with library computers to a staff member immediately. Library staff are not authorized to assist with any online purchases or financial transactions or to reconfigure or install software on any computer not owned by the library.
Print / Copy Policy
Copies and computer print-outs are available as a convenience to patrons at prices posted at the circulation desk.