Internet/Wireless Use Policy
I. Library Mission Statement
The mission of the Waterford Library is to ensure the people of the community the right and means to free and open access of ideas and information which are fundamental to a democracy. The library protects intellectual freedom, encourages lifelong learning, and provides information services to its users.
II. Philosophy of Internet Service
The Internet enables the library to offer information beyond the confines of its own print collection. The library considers its endorsement of the Library Bill of Rights and the Freedom to Read documents to apply to all electronic information. The Waterford Public Library provides free access to the Internet to connect the public to the world of ideas and information and to provide equal access to that information for all individuals in the community. Providing access to information available on the Internet does not constitute endorsement of the content by the Library. Waterford Public Library expressly disclaims any liability or responsibility arising from use of the Internet or information obtained through the Internet.
III. Library Responsibilities
Library staff will provide general information to access the Internet. Library staff and/or representatives are not allowed to directly or indirectly configure users’ laptop/handheld computers or devices, or to install software on patron owned computers/devices. Please contact the vendor or manufacturer of your laptop, device or software for assistance with these issues. Patrons may not install software on the Internet computers.
The library will set time limits and accept reservations for Internet access due to bandwidth and seating limitations. One-hour reservations will be accepted on the Internet computers. To reserve time to use the Internet computers, patrons must present a valid Waterford Public Library card or picture I.D. The intent of the library is to provide Internet access to as many patrons as possible during operating hours.
The library’s network is not intended to be used as a primary network connection. If damage results from a patron’s misuse or abuse of library computers, the patron may be required to pay for repairs or replacements. The Library assumes no responsibility for any alterations or interference with a laptop’s configuration, operation, or data files resulting from connection to the Library’s wireless network. Library staff and/or representatives are not allowed to configure a user’s laptop or handheld computer or install any device or software on a patron owned computer or device. Patrons need to contact the vendor or manufacturer of your laptop, device or software for assistance with these issues.
IV. User Responsibilities
All users must present identification to register for Internet access. Waterford Public Library cards are valid identification. Adult Internet users without a valid library card must provide a current driver’s license and phone number before Internet access is granted.
All users of electronic information resources such as the Internet are expected to use these resources in a responsible manner, consistent with their educational and informational purposes. All users must agree to follow the rules and regulations set forth in the Internet/Wireless Use Policy. By using a free public Internet workstation or wireless Internet connection at Waterford Public Library, you agree to the following guidelines:
- Patrons accept the responsibility to verify information.
- Parents allowing their children to access any computer network on the library premises accept the responsibility to monitor and supervise their children’s access. No children under the age of eight will be allowed to use the computers unless accompanied by their parent or guardian.
- Use of library computers for illegal activity will result in loss of library computer access or Internet privileges. Display of sexually explicit graphics or other offensive material is inappropriate for an open public environment and will result in loss of library computer access privileges.
- The library cannot guarantee the privacy of any data you transmit across our network. The end user is responsible for all aspects of computer security when using their own equipment to access the wireless network. The library assumes no responsibility for theft, damage or loss of any kind to a user’s equipment, software and data files or other personal property brought into or used at the library.
- The library reserves the right to end a patron’s use of Internet access if the patron violates any of these guidelines.
Approved by WPL Board of Trustees: August 12, 2008
Revised: November 13, 2018