Computer Use and Internet Access Policy

Policy regarding the use of public computers and the Internet at the Rolfe Public Library

The Rolfe Public Library provides free access to electronic resources via the Internet through a publicly accessible Wi-Fi and use of our public access electronic devices such as computers and iPads.  Electronic devices and Wi-Fi are available for public use during regular business hours, except during times of routine maintenance or technical issues which cannot be immediately resolved.   The password for the public Wi-Fi will be posted prominently inside the Library for patrons. The purpose of providing public Internet access is to expose the public to the world of information available on the Internet and to provide equal access to that information for all individuals in the community.

Since the Internet is a global electronic network, the Rolfe Public Library has no control over the information accessed through the Internet and is not responsible for its content.  As with all Library materials, individuals must accept responsibility for evaluating the content accessed.  The Internet and its available resources may contain material of a controversial nature.  The Library will not censor access to material nor protect users from offensive information and is not responsible for the availability or accuracy of information accessed from network sites not maintained by the Library.

The Rolfe Public Library Policies Computer Workstation Procedures will govern the use of the Library computers.  Misuse of electronic devices may result in suspension or loss of user privileges.

The following rules govern access to the Internet from the Library, whether via Library owned devices or personal devices:

• Illegal use of the Internet is prohibited.  Each user is responsible for complying with copyright law and adhering to software licensing agreements, as well as local, state, and federal laws including, but not limited to, those concerning fraud, privacy, or obscenity. 
• It is illegal to use the Library’s computers or Wi-Fi to access, view, print, distribute, display, send or receive images or graphics that violates laws. 
• Iowa law places limitations on knowingly disseminating or exhibiting obscene material so that it can be observed by a minor.  Library staff may request individuals cease to view or listen to works that threaten the safe and comfortable environment of the library or interfere with the conduct of Library business.
• Rolfe Public Library does not impose blocking or filtering software to limit access to Internet sites on adult-area computers.  Patrons may choose to use filtered search engines.  Children’s area computers have a filter operated by a third-party which limit access to many known social media sites. Parents or Guardians should inquire at the circulation desk regarding the current filter provider if they wish to investigate the current filter parameters.  Be aware that new websites are created daily and the filter may not prevent access to all inappropriate sites.  Parents or guardians are responsible for oversight.
• Customers handling financial transactions or other activities that require confidentiality do so at their own risk.  The Internet is not a private environment and security of electronic communication cannot be guaranteed.
• Internet communications shall be considered private, and confidentiality will be encouraged within the limits of the public environment, the technology of the equipment, and the requirements of law.
• The Library accepts no liability for inability to connect with Internet sites, even if failure is due to failure of the Library’s Internet connection.
• The Library uses imaging software which prevents patrons from permanently saving documents to the Library’s computers.  Patrons are encouraged to store needed documents on a personal device such as a USB drive.
• As is the case with other materials in the Library’s collection, any restriction of a child’s access to the Internet is the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian.  Parents or guardians are responsible for oversight to ensure their child(ren) use the Internet in a safe and appropriate manner, including the proper use of expensive electronic devices.
• Violation of these rules may lead to the suspension or revocation of Internet access through the Library’s devices.