Derry Public Library Internet User Policy

Derry Public Library Comprehensive Computer Use and Internet Policy Approved 5/21/07

As part of its mission to provide information for community residents in their pursuit of educational, personal and recreational interests, the Derry Public Library offers use of computers for public access to the Internet, online catalog and subscription database access. Wireless internet access is available without charge throughout the building, in the parking area in front of the library, and in the adjacent park to the limit of the transmission. Patrons may use their own laptop computers equipped with the appropriate wireless access card.

The Internet is an evolving entity. The Derry Public Library, its Trustees and staff, do not monitor and have no control over information available on the Internet. We value your privacy, however, under certain judicial conditions, including the Patriot Act, Derry Public Library may be required to provide patron records of use, library computers and/or computer files at the order of law enforcement officials. The provisions of the Patriot Act prohibit any staff member or Trustee from telling a person that the information has been requested or that the material has been confiscated.

Patron Responsibilities:

Library computers must be used in a responsible manner, respecting the rights of others and the care of the equipment. No person may use any computer or personal digital device on library property in a way that disturbs or interferes with other users.
In the interest of serving all customers, the Library reserves the right to set time limits on any workstation. The library staff does not provide comprehensive training or support outside of scheduled sessions, but Reference staff may give limited assistance, suggest authoritative web sites or offer print materials for instruction.
Patrons are responsible for payment for all pages printed. If uncertain of how to print or what will be printed, a user should consult with a Reference Librarian BEFORE printing. The workstations shall not be used for any fraudulent or unlawful purpose, including any activities prohibited by applicable local, state, and federal laws.
Sites displaying sexually explicit images are not to be viewed on any computer on library property and may result in the suspension of Internet and/or library privileges by the Board of Trustees.
The library’s mailing address shall not be used for material ordered over the Internet.
Users are bound by copyright law and must seek permission from the appropriate authority to make any substantive reproduction of materials. Also, users should properly cite or acknowledge the source of any information used from these sites.
Users may bring their own storage media (3.5 inch floppy disks, CD-ROM disks, USB flash drives) or may purchase items at the Circulation Desk for a fee.
The user is liable for damage deliberately done to library computers and/or networks and for any violation of library policy or local, state, and federal laws. Such damage or violation shall result in denial of further access, loss of all library privileges, and/or criminal prosecution by the Board of Trustees on behalf of the Derry Public Library.
Users should be aware that the library is a public place and the Internet may not be a secure venue. Caution should be used in divulging personal information.

Wireless Access:

Library staff cannot assist in making changes to the user’s laptop network settings or perform troubleshooting on the user’s laptop computer.
For safety reasons, it is not permitted to run power cords from laptops across aisles.
Wireless printing is available at the posted cost per page.
It is the user’s responsibility to use the resource wisely, questioning the validity of information found.

Children and the Internet

The Internet contains many types of information and resources, including material unsuitable for children. The Library does not filter or censor material on the Internet. Parents and guardians are solely responsible for supervising the information their children view.

Permission must be granted for patrons in grade 9 and below to access the Internet at the Library. A parent or guardian is required to sign a form acknowledging this policy has been read and understood, and agreeing to its content.
Young patrons in grade 6 and below must access the Internet in the Children’s Room. Minor patrons in grade 7 and above are issued an adult card and must access the Internet on the adult floor.
In compliance with state and federal law parents may deny Internet access to their children up to the age of 18, if they so choose.

Library Website (www.derrypl.org)

The Derry Public Library maintains a library website for public relations and access to our catalog, databases and information pages.
The staff of the Derry Public Library has developed a variety of web pages with suggested links to assist users in locating quality information. In choosing sites to link to its website, the Library follows its materials selection guidelines.
The Derry Public Library accepts no form of sponsorship when choosing links. Inclusion, exclusion or deletion of links is solely at the discretion of the Library.

The Library is not responsible for changes in the content of linked sites, or for the content of sources accessed through links. A provided link is not to be taken as an endorsement or approval of the linked site, or of material on that site, or of the organizations owning the site.

Subscription Databases

Databases are purchased through the NH State Library, the GMILCS consortium, and by independent subscription.
Selection is based on perceived value as a research tool and on affordability.
Access is limited to patrons physically in the library and to patrons logging in from home using a valid Derry Public Library card number and PIN.

DOWNLOADABLE AUDIO BOOKS, provided by the NH State Library, may be accessed by cardholders via the library’s website and library catalog. Users are responsible for reading relevant online help materials and obtaining appropriate media, Internet connections, and any other necessary software or hardware components for use of this service.

BLOGS, PODCASTS, VIDEOCASTS and SOCIAL NETWORKING SITES (such as MySpace)
The library is exploring ways to encourage interaction with patrons via online services. Future technologies may offer the opportunity for patrons to comment and provide feedback.

It is the intent of the Library that a positive atmosphere be maintained when patrons post comments for public view.
Comments should be relevant to the specific post to which they are attached.
Spam, flaming, personal attacks, and offensive comments will not be permitted. The Library reserves the right to delete comments of this nature.

DISCLAIMER

The Derry Public Library, its trustees and employees shall have no liability for any damages, including and without limitation, direct, indirect, consequential, compensatory, special, punitive, or incidental damages arising out of or relating to the use of our website or the information and materials provided herein.