REVISION 2008
Approved May 28, 2008
Proposed Rev. April 23, 2019
No 9100.05
RELATIONS
Internet Use Policy in the Public Library
Internet Use Policy in the Public Library
The Newburgh Free Library offers Internet access on selected public computers and wireless access for personal equipment.
The Library’s Internet access is a Library resource to be utilized in the fulfillment of the Library’s mission as stated in its Library Mission Policy No. 2100.02 and is intended primarily as an information resource. The Library Policy is informed by the NECSD Use of Electronic Devices Policy 8464 (April 10, 2018) and the Internet Safety Regulation 4526.1-R.
The Library‘s Internet access permits authorized users to connect to networks of resources outside of and beyond the control of the Library. Such knowledge is nearly limitless and expanding daily and, therefore, the Library is incapable of complete knowledge of all that is accessible. Information accessible to users may be inappropriate and even offensive; it may be reliable and current, or it may be inaccurate, out-of-date or at times unavailable. The Newburgh Free Library expressly denies any responsibility for the reliability of information by any user.
Due to the near limitless availability of information and services accessible via the Internet, some of which may be inappropriate or offensive, the individual user must exercise discretion, be responsible for their actions in navigating the network, and be considerate of others who may be able to view the material brought on screen. The Library cannot provide assurance that Internet users will have privacy in the materials or communications undertaken via the Internet.
Parents/Guardians are responsible for conveying to their children the standards their children should follow when utilizing the Library’s Internet, which may be more restrictive than the prohibited uses set forth below.
Library staff will endeavor to assist those desirous to use the Library’s Internet access; however, it is not the responsibility of Library staff to teach patrons basic Internet or computer usage.
The following are examples of uses of the Library’s Internet access are inappropriate and prohibited;
1. Illegal acts
2. Transmission of defamatory material
3. Unauthorized copying of copyrighted material
4. Plagiarism
5. Receipt or transmission of obscene material; which shall mean any material in written, pictorial or other form concerning sexual or excretory organs or actions that predominately appeal to prurient interests, which is patently offensive in accordance with prevailing standards in the adult community as a whole, and is without redeeming social value.
6. Receipt or transmission by or to a minor of material sexually indecent to minors; which shall mean any material in written, pictorial or other form concerning sexual or excretory organs or actions that predominately appeal to the prurient interests of minors, which is patently offensive in accordance with prevailing standards in the adult community as a whole with regard to that which is suitable material for minors, and is without redeeming social value to minors.
7. Destruction or alteration of another’s materials or files; vandalism of equipment, or tampering with computer hardware or software.
Failure to utilize the Library’s Internet access and/or the Library’s computers appropriately may result in suspension and/or revocation of Internet use and or Library use privileges. Uses that are also unlawful may also result in criminal and/or civil proceeding