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HAYWOOD COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY
INTERNET ACCESS POLICY

June 16, 2004The Haywood County Public Library offers to the public access to the Internet because it provides a vast array of informational resources that otherwise is not available to library patrons. The library asks that people use the Internet in a responsible manner, consistent with the educational and informational purposes for which it is provided.

The library can and does recommend interesting and useful Internet destinations for library patrons to explore. However, the library does not have the ability to select, monitor or control the content of the tens of thousands of sites available. Some sites may contain invalid or inaccurate information; therefore, users need to be sure of the sources of information they are using.

In accordance with current state and federal laws, all library computers that connect to the Internet use a technology protection measure to filter and block access to images that are obscene, pornographic, or harmful to minors (age 16 and under). Filters are not 100% effective and may not filter images that should be blocked, and conversely, may block images that should not be blocked, library staff may, at their discretion, temporarily disable the filter for an adult to conduct bona fide research.

Illegal use of the Internet is prohibited. Library users may not use the Library’s Internet access to view, print, distribute, display, send or receive images, text or graphics of obscene material or material that violates laws relating to child pornography. Library users may not disseminate, exhibit or display to minors materials that are harmful to minors.

Users must be careful not to expose themselves to dangerous situations. Users must be cautious when using e-mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, and all other forms of communications.

Users may not engage in unlawful activities or misrepresentation. Users may not attempt unauthorized access to any computer system.

Users may not make unauthorized disclosure of, use of, or dissemination of a minor’s personal information by means of the Internet, e-mail, or any other electronic technology. A minor must have the authorization of their parent or guardian to disclose their own personal information.

Misuse or abuse of an Internet workstation will result in suspension of Internet access privileges. Persons using the equipment agree not to make changes to the setup or configuration of the software or hardware.

Library staff are available to assist in the use of Internet resources but may not be familiar with every application a patron might wish to use. There may not be an Internet trained staff member on duty at all times the library is open.