Middletown Public Library West Chester Public Library Trenton Public Library  
         
 
 
Internet Access Policy

INTRODUCTION

The role of the Middletown Public Library is:

  • To build and maintain community libraries from which the general public can draw. In this context, the term "library" embraces a diverse collection of books, magazines, tapes, discs, or other media, which may be used for the purpose of education, information, or leisure pursuits;
  • To provide information and research services within an inviting atmosphere; and
  • To provide library-related community services.

The Library will protect intellectual freedom, promote literacy, encourage lifelong learning, and provide library materials and information services.

Historically, the Middletown Public Library has made information available in a variety of formats, from print to audiovisual materials. The Internet provides the opportunity to integrate electronic resources from information networks around the world. The Middletown Public Library offers access to the Internet through the Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN). OPLIN establishes and maintains network connections between Ohio's public library systems and the Internet . OPLIN also provides in-library Internet access to reference databases of general and special periodical materials, readers' advisory services, homework centers to assist customers with research assignments, and legislative, historical, and archival materials and information.

The Internet , as an information resource, enables the Library to access ideas, information and commentary beyond the confines of its own collection. The Internet , however, is an unregulated medium. As such, while it offers access to a wealth of material that is personally, professionally, and culturally enriching to individuals of all ages, it also enables access to some material that may be offensive, disturbing, inaccurate, incomplete, and/or illegal.

In introducing the Internet as an information resource, the Middletown Public Library's goal is to enhance its existing collection in size and depth. In addition to this goal, the Library in its role as a public access agency will provide the opportunity to any citizen to navigate the Internet through the Library.

DISCLAIMER

It is understood by users of the Internet that most information available is not generated by the Middletown Public Library or OPLIN.

Information available through the Internet is not warranted by the Middletown Public Library or OPLIN to be accurate, authoritative, factual or complete. The availability of networked information via the Middletown Public Library does not constitute an endorsement or ratification of that information. The Middletown Public Library and OPLIN are not responsible for the content of networked information available, nor are we responsible for any misuse of copyright or any other violation. The use of the Internet to engage in any activity which constitutes violation of local, state, and/or federal laws is strictly prohibited.

All users of this service agree to hold the Middletown Public Library and OPLIN harmless from any and all claims, losses, damages, obligations, or liabilities directly or indirectly relating to the use of the Internet , caused thereby or arising there from. In no event shall the Middletown Public Library or OPLIN have any liability for lost profits or for indirect, special, punitive, or consequential damages or any liability to any third party, even if the Middletown Public Library or OPLIN is advised of the possibility of such damages.

Conditions and Terms of Library Internet Use

(1) To use the Internet, you must have a Middletown Public Library card or a staff issued Internet guest pass.

(2) Parents and guardians who are concerned about their children's use of the Internet should provide guidance to their own children.

(3) Use of the Internet workstations is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Internet sessions may not exceed 45 minutes. Each customer will be limited to 90 minutes per day on the Internet workstations.

(4) Internet computer workstations will be shut down fifteen minutes before the Library closes.

(5) Due to the prevalence of computer viruses on public workstations, all hard drives on the Library's Internet computer workstation will be locked for security purposes. You will therefore not be able to use your own software programs or download/save files from the Internet to the Library's computer workstation.

(6) You may print from any computer for $.10 per page for black and white prints and $.30 per page for color prints.

(7) Use of the Internet computer workstation is limited to one customer at a time unless otherwise permitted by the librarian on-duty. This will ensure that all users have signed in and that a quiet atmosphere is observed.

(8) Users are not permitted to add, delete, or modify the installed hardware or software of the Library's Internet computer workstation. In this context, even the addition of bookmarks is prohibited. Users are not allowed to modify or gain access to files, passwords, or other data on the Library computer. All users are liable if they permanently or temporarily damage any equipment or software.

(9) Providing connections to global information, services, and networks is not the same as selecting and purchasing material for a library collection. Determining the accuracy or authenticity of electronic information may present special problems. It is, therefore, the responsibility of each user to determine what is appropriate.

(10) The Library's Internet computer workstation will be used for educational, informational, and recreational purposes only, not for unauthorized, illegal or unethical purposes. Be mindful and respectful of the rights of other customers, particularly children, not to be inadvertently exposed to material and images they, or their parents, may find personally unsuitable. You may not send, receive or display text or graphics which may reasonably be construed as obscene. Access to and/or display of obscene language and sexually explicit graphics and materials, as defined in sections 2907.01 and 2907.31 of the Ohio Revised Code, are prohibited.

(11) Each branch of the Middletown Public Library may vary these policies or establish any additional policies it finds necessary to regulate Internet access or prevent misuse. Library management will approve all policy changes.

(12) Misuse of the Library's Internet computer workstation, OPLIN Internet access or violation of this policy will result in loss of Internet privileges.

(13) Customers who owe the library $5 or more will not be permitted to use library services which require a library card, including the Internet, until the balance is paid in full.

LIBRARY STAFF ASSISTANCE

Library staff will be glad to assist you in accessing the Internet and OPLIN databases. Library staff, however, cannot provide in-depth training or technical instruction.

Have fun exploring the Internet , but please remember that many times we can assist you in finding the information you need right here, in our books, periodicals, and CD ROM databases.