Public Computer use and Internet Access

Internet Access Policy

In response to advances in technology and the changing needs of the community, the Shannon Municipal Library endeavors to develop collections, resources, and services that meet the cultural, informational, recreational and educational needs of the community.  It is within this context that the Shannon Municipal Library offers access to the Internet.

The library does not monitor and has no control over the information accessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its content.  The Internet is a global entity with a highly diverse user population and library patrons use it at their own risk.  Parents or guardians, NOT the library or its staff, are responsible for the Internet information selected and/or accessed by their children.  Parents are requested to supervise their children’s use of the public access computers and the Internet.  As this is not always possible, the library has developed guidelines for Internet access by children 14 and under.

To be more specific:

The Shannon Municipal Library does not censor your access to materials or protect you from information you find offensive.  There is material and information which you may personally find controversial or inappropriate.  Not all sources on the Internet provide accurate, complete, or current information.  You need to question the validity of the information you find.

Staff Assistance:

Library staff will be available during normal Library hours to assist patrons in accessing the Internet, offer searching suggestions and answer questions.  Some basic training may be available by appointment.

Guidelines

1. Children under the age of ten must be supervised by an adult.  Persons 14 years and younger must have an Internet Card. These free cards are obtained by having a parent or guardian come to the library and sign a permission form.  Exceptions may be granted with the approval of the Librarian or her designate.
2. Persons with children under the age of five in their care or supervision in the library are limited to 30 minutes on the computer.
3. The Internet Access computers are normally available, subject to periodic maintenance, during the scheduled library hours.
4. Use of the Internet Access computer is on a first-come, first-served basis. Users must sign in at the front desk prior to using any of the public access computers. At times of increased demand, computer time may be limited to allow fair use by all.  No user may remain on the Internet for longer than two hours.
5. As the library does not filter access to the Internet, you are required to respect the other users of the library when accessing information.  In this context, if the material you are accessing is inappropriate or offensive, you will be asked to leave.  Repeat offenses will result in total loss of Internet privileges. 
6. A maximum of TWO people are allowed at the terminal at any one time.
7. The public access computers are not available during normal school hours to any person under 16 years of age. Exceptions may be granted with the approval of the Librarian or her designate.
8. The Shannon Municipal Library is not responsible for damage to a patron’s disk, laptop computer, memory stick, camera, MP3 player or any other external device that makes use of the library public access computers. Nor is the Library responsible for any loss, damage, or liability that may occur from a patron’s use of the library’s computers.
9. Printing is available at prices set to cover the costs of paper and ink.
10. Any user abusing, misusing, or engaging in any use of the computer equipment or software not authorized by the site, or introducing a virus, will be prohibited from using this service.  Misuse will result in loss of computer privileges.