ACPL Internet, Wireless, and Computer Use Policies
ACPL Internet and Computer Use Policy
INTRODUCTION
This document is a policy for the management of the Internet and computer resources at the Akron Carnegie Public Library (ACPL). It reflects the mission of the library and indicates the parameters by which the computer resources are to be used.
The ACPL has the right to set and enforce the following rules concerning the use of the library’s computer resources by persons of all ages. If individuals violate these rules in any way, they may be asked to leave the library for a specified period of time and their right to use the library’s computer and Internet resources may be revoked. Individuals using the resources for illegal purposes may also be subject to prosecution.
MANAGEMENT OF COMPUTER RESOURCES
Public Access
Access to information in electronic format is provided through public access computers, including the Internet and several software applications.
General Rules
Patrons must sign in at the front desk and present a valid Evergreen library card before using computers. All non-cardholders must present a valid driver’s license (or acceptable ID).
Computer users below the age of 6 may use the library computers only if they are accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. A parent or legal guardian must be present to sign the Parental Permission for Computer Usage portion of the application card if the user is under the age of 18.
Stored Information
Any information stored by a user on the library’s public access computers is automatically removed when the computer is logged off after the patron vacates the computer.
Time Limits
In order to maximize the availability of the computers to all users, time limits may be imposed on the use of computer resources. Students may be limited to one hour of computer usage time in the a.m. and one hour in the p.m. Adult computer time is set at one hour, with a maximum limit of two hours per day. Certain exceptions may be made for patrons taking exams or classes online, doing homework, etc., as permitted by staff at the circulation desk.
Printing costs
Copies are 10¢ per printed side for black & while, including pages printed “by accident” or not wanted. Printing in color is 25¢ per printed side.
Children’s Area
The computers in the Children’s Area are reserved for the exclusive use of children under the age of 12. An adult caregiver may assist a child in the use of a computer, but may not use a separate public access computer in this location for their own personal use.
Adult and Teen Areas
The computers in the Adult and Teen Areas are reserved for the use of patrons age 12 and up. While using the computer resources of the Akron Carnegie Public Library, persons of all ages shall:
- not violate copyright laws and licensing agreements pertaining to software, files, or other resources obtained via the Internet;
- not harass or slander other persons or parties;
- not interfere or impede the use of computers by others;
- not violate Federal, State, or local laws or regulations.
- not download programs onto the computer without approval of the library staff.
ACPL Wireless Policy
INTRODUCTION
This document is a policy for the management of the Internet resources at the Akron Carnegie Public Library (ACPL). It reflects the mission of the library and indicates the parameters by which Internet resources are to be used.
The ACPL has the right to set and enforce the following rules concerning the use of its library’s Internet resources by persons of all ages. If individuals violate these rules in any way, they may be asked to leave the library for a specified period of time and their right to use the library’s Internet resources may be revoked. Individuals using the library’s Internet resources for illegal purposes may also be subject to prosecution.
MANAGEMENT OF COMPUTER RESOURCES
Public Access
Access to information in electronic format is provided through public access computers, including the Internet and several software applications. Public access to our wireless internet is available to anyone.
Time Limits
Wireless access is available 6AM to 11PM daily.
Wireless In-house Use
While using the wireless resources of the Akron Carnegie Public Library, persons of all ages shall:
- not violate copyright laws and licensing agreements pertaining to software, files, or other resources obtained via the Internet;
- not harass or slander other persons or parties;
- not interfere or impede the use of computers by others;
- not violate Federal, State, or local laws or regulations.
Hotspots Wireless Use
Please refer to the Wi-Fi Hotspot Lending Policy for more information.
Internet Safety
In compliance with the Neighborhood Children’s Internet Protection Act (NCIPA), the Akron Carnegie Public Library will employ appropriate measures designed to restrict access by minors (anyone under 18 years of age) to inappropriate matter on the Internet and the World Wide Web. Minors shall be monitored by library staff, and shall not disclose, use, or disseminate personal identification information on the Internet. Further, persons of all ages shall:
- not display or disseminate sexually explicit or sexually suggestive (obscene/pornographic) material or language that is abusive or harmful to minors;
- not use electronic mail, and other forms of direct electronic communications for purposes that are inappropriate to a library setting;
- not alter, damage, or disable computer software configurations and equipment by unauthorized access, including hacking and the propagation of computer viruses;
- not engage in any and all other matters which the library, in its sole discretion, and in consideration of the best interests of the public, determines to be an unacceptable purpose.
Disclaimer
The ACPL cannot manage all the information resources on the Internet, as it is an unregulated global entity. Therefore, it is technically impossible to prevent access to resources that may be inaccurate, defamatory, illegal, or potentially objectionable to some people.
The library assumes no responsibility for any loss, damage, or injury arising from the use of its computing resources, nor for the accuracy, nature, or quality of the Internet access it provides. This includes damage or injury sustained from invasions of the user’s privacy. It is the responsibility of parents and guardians to determine whether to place restrictions on their own minor children in the use of the Internet.
Users of the Internet through the Akron Carnegie Public Library shall abide by all rules set up by the Akron Public Library and by its Internet provider. The library reserved the right to modify this policy at any time.
Approved by Board of Trustees
Date: 10/1/19, 12/6/22, 2/6/24
