Library Internet Policy
Clarence Regional Library
Internet Policy
Aims and objectives of the policy
The policy has a number of aims and objectives:
Promote the Internet as a valuable and important research tool for information
Promote freedom of information
Ensure equal access to the Internet for members of the Clarence Regional Library
Ensure that the user understands his/her responsibilities when using electronic resources
Safeguard the Libraries resources
User Responsibility
Users under 18 years of age
Young people are welcome to access the Internet in the Library, with their parent’s permission. Any material accessed by children when using the Internet is the sole responsibility of parents and guardians. It is suggested that parents and guardians read the Clarence Regional Library’s Parents Guide to the Internet
Ethical Use of the Internet
Provision of access to the Internet is on the condition that it is used in an ethical manner. Any unethical behaviour such as using the workstation to gain unauthorised access to any network or computer system, undertaking any activities which are offensive or slanderous, performing illegal or criminal activities is unacceptable.
The Library recognises an individual’s right to freedom of access to information. However, users must be sensitive to the beliefs and values of other users and staff when accessing material that is potentially controversial or offensive. Access to material deemed inappropriate for a Public Library environment may be limited.
Offensive and/or erroneous Material
The Internet allows the user to access a wide range of information. The user must be aware that the Internet is an uncensored and unregulated resource tool, and as such, the type of material accessed is the sole responsibility of the user. The Library accepts no responsibility for the accuracy and validity of information accessed via the Internet by the user.
Access Time
Free access to the Internet is available to Library members. Due to the demand for access to the Internet, members are limited in the time period they can spend using the Library’s facilities. Bookings are encouraged and can be made by phone or in person. Due to demand bookings are made in half hour or hourly timeslots at a number of branches. Booking time includes time needed for printing and downloading.
Bookings can be made up to one week in advance.
Due to the demand for access to the public access computers, users arriving more than 15 minutes late will automatically have their booking cancelled. Where possible another booking can be made for that day, dependent on demand.
A maximum of 2 users per terminal. Group bookings can be made on request.
Printing and Downloading
Due to Council’s information technology security requirements users may experience limitations when attempting to save or download material from the Internet.
Printing is available at the Library on a fee for service basis (Council sets printing charges). Clients undertaking printing are responsible for collection and payment of all printouts.
Copyright
Individuals accessing the Internet need to be aware that material on the Internet may be protected by copyright. Individuals are therefore personally responsible for complying with the appropriate laws (both international and federal) governing copyright material.
Consideration of Staff and Library Equipment
The Internet is a resource tool that provides access to an unmeasurable number of sites. As a result it can not be expected that Library Staff are experts in the use of every site accessed by users. Individual problems experienced by the users when accessing particular sites are the responsibility of the user. The Library will not tolerate any form of abuse directed at either the staff or the computers as a result of any problems and individuals may be asked to leave the library as outlined in the Library Regulation 2005.
Library Responsibilities
To ensure that a copy of the Library’s policies are available through the website and in hardcopy at each of the Clarence Regional Library’s branches and on the mobile library.
Provide users with assistance and recognising that staff are not experts with regards to particular user problems and that the user is responsible for their own search.
Respect user privacy and maintain user confidentiality.
If requested by relevant authorities under state or federal law, provide records for criminal or investigatory purposes.
Provision of Links
The Clarence Regional Library provides a selection of links to various internet sites from its home page. These links are not monitored. As a result any material that is accessed or downloaded by the user that is offensive or damaging eg. Viruses, is not the responsibility of the Library.
PLEASE NOTE - INDIVIDUALS WHO DO NOT COMPLY WITH THE POLICY MAY HAVE THEIR SESSION TERMINATED OR BE DENIED FUTURE ACCESS TO THE AS OUTLINED IN THE LIBRARY REGULATION 2005.
Draft August 2007
Adopted by the Executive Council - Clarence Valley Council