Jerome Public Library

COMPUTER AND INTERNET USE POLICY

The Jerome Public Library does not monitor and has no control over the information accessed through the internet and is not responsible for its content.  Library users access the internet at their own discretion and they are responsible for any access points they reach.  As with other library materials, supervision or restriction of a child's access to the internet is the responsibility and right of the parent or legal guardian.  Children under 18 must have a permission form signed by a parent or guardian.  The parent or guardian must present a picture ID.   Children 12 years old and under must be directly supervised by an adult to use the internet, but will have access to games provided by the library on the children's computers without a signed policy.  Children 6 and under must have parental supervision at all times to use the children's computers.

First time users must obtain a username and password from staff.  Log-in information can not be shared with anyone.  A session is considered ended when a customer vacates his/her seat, whether or not they have logged off.  Computers are available during regular library hours.  Staff assistance is limited.  Use of computers is on a first come, first served basis. A time limit will not be assigned.  Those using library computers agree to end their session within 10 minutes of being notified by staff that another person is waiting.

Alert staff to any specific software or hardware needs.  Library computers are variously equipped, and staff will try to accommodate your needs.   If all computers meeting your requirements are in use, you will be placed on a waiting list and proper notice will be given.  Do not log in to another computer while waiting.

Email is available on library computers only through web-based providers.  Printing is available at 20 cents per sheet plus tax.  You are responsible for all pages printed from the computer you are logged into during your session.  Use of personal external devices is at your own risk, and you are responsible for any damage your external device causes to a library computer.  Internet gaming may be suspended from time to time based on bandwidth issues.  Do not shut down the computer or log off of Windows.  When you are finished, log off of NetTime.

The library does not filter internet access and upholds the right of each individual to have access to constitutionally protected material.  Parents are strongly urged to monitor their own children's use of library materials and resources.  It is the user's responsibility to know state and federal law concerning the limits of protected speech.  Further, since the library serves all ages and computer monitors are easily viewable, customers must use discretion as to others in the building, especially children.  The standards set forth in IDAHO STATUTE TITLE 18 -1514, regarding the definition of "materials harmful to minors" shall be referred to when determining the acceptability of web pages viewable by children. All illegal activities are prohibited, including but not limited to viewing pornography, and violation of copyright or other rights of third parties.

Computer stations are designed for single person use.  However, two or more computer account holders may occupy one computer together when space allows.  Users must not allow others to loiter at their station.  Users are expected to exercise common courtesy; noise levels should remain very low while using the computers, including but not limited to voices and electronic devices.

Access may be denied to library card holders if the customer has outstanding fines or overdue materials.    Failure to use the internet stations appropriately and responsibly as defined in this computer and internet use policy may result in suspension or revocation of internet use privileges.

Updated and approved by the Library Board of Trustees 3/2007.  Last revised 8/2007