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Computer Use Policy
Computer sessions last one hour. You may log on again when your
session has expired for a maximum of 3 hours per day.
There is one 15 minute Express Computer available, but you are
only allowed one session on it. You may not use the 15 minute computer while you
are waiting for a one hour computer to become available.
Children under eighteen must have an
Internet permission form signed by a parent or guardian (in presence of library
staff) on file and they must present their library cards when they sign up for
computer use OR they must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
The library has four computers for
children under 18 who do not have Internet permission but who need a computer
for school assignments. These computers may not be used for surfing the
internet, email, chat or games.
Internet Policy
The Internet is
a vast, global network providing an unlimited range of information. It enhances
the Library's in-house resources and offers a valuable educational experience
for both adults and children. Users are encouraged to take advantage of the
Internet; however, it is not regulated by any governing body. Much of the
information retrieved may be inaccurate, offensive to some, or inappropriate for
children.
To remain
consistent with the American Library Association's "Library Bill of Rights"
(http://www.ala.org/work/freedom/lbr.html ), the ALA's "Statement on
Filtering" (http://www.ala.org/alaorg/oif/filt_stm.html ) and the Norwalk
Library's own materials selection, policy, the Library's Internet access is not
subject to limitations or censorship. Users are expected to exercise good
judgment and discretion since the Library does not control or monitor access.
The Library does
not take responsibility for the Internet's accuracy, timeliness or
appropriateness. Users are responsible for evaluating the materials that are
accessed. Parents/guardians of minors are responsible for supervising and
monitoring their children's Internet use. Children under eighteen must have an
Internet permission form signed by a parent or guardian (in presence of library
staff) on file and they must present their library cards when they sign up for
use OR they must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Guidance is offered in
a publication called Child Safety on the Information Highway (http://www.safekids.com/child_safety.htm).
El Internet Una Guia Para Padres de Familia
(http://www.ed.gov/PDFDocs/Internet_sp.pdf)
Copies are available at the Information Desk and in the Children's Department.
Electronic
information, services, and networks provided by libraries should be readily,
equally, and equitably accessible to all library users. Libraries and librarians
should not deny or limit access to information available via electronic
resources because of its controversial content or because of personal beliefs or
fear of confrontation. Information retrieved or utilized electronically should
be considered constitutionally protected unless determined otherwise by a court
with appropriate jurisdiction. Responsibility for, and any restriction of, a
child's use of the Internet rests solely with his or her parents or legal
guardians.
Users are
cautioned that ideas, points of view and images can be found on the Internet,
which are controversial, divergent and/or inflammatory. The provision of access
does not mean or imply that the Library endorses or sanctions the content or
point of view of any of the information or commentary, which may be found on the
Internet.
The Library
cannot protect individuals from information and images that they might find
offensive or disturbing. Since the library computers on which the public can
access the Internet are located in public areas that must be shared by library
users of all ages, background and sensibilities, individuals are asked to
consider this when accessing potentially controversial information and images.
Library staff cannot consistently and effectively monitor the public's use of
the Internet. Yet the Library reserves the right to ask individuals to
discontinue the display of information and images that cause a disruption.
User
Responsibilities
All users of the
Internet are expected to use this library resource in a responsible and
courteous manner, consistent with the purposes for which it is provided, and to
follow all Internet-related rules, regulations and procedures established for
its use including, but not limited to, those of the Library.
Compliance
with Library Policy and Guidelines
In addition to
this specific policy, general guidelines for the use of all public-access
computers govern the use of the Internet in the Library. Violation of the
policies and regulations that govern the use of the Library's Internet resources
may result in suspension or loss of the privilege to use these resources.
Illegal activity involving the Library's Internet resources will be subject to
prosecution by the appropriate authorities.
Staff
Assistance with computers and personal transactions
The library provides free access to the Internet for
informational and educational purposes. While our reference staff will guide
users in the application of general research techniques in the use of databases
as well as the rest of our collection, staff cannot perform online personal
transactions for individuals such as, but not limited to, the preparation and or
submission of employment applications, resumes, medical, immigration, financial
aid, or tax forms. Likewise, staff cannot edit papers, write letters or
translate documents.
Librarians are trained to apply their research skills to
locate requested information. They also assist library users in the application
of research techniques for self-directed searches. Although librarians may
possess in-depth knowledge of specialized fields beyond their general reference
training, they are not authorized to give advice, opinions or consultations of a
legal, medical or financial nature or any other matter that would usually
require the services of a practitioner in the particular field.
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