Policy & Guidelines

All computers in the library are filtered at all times. Adults may ask at the front desk to have the filter removed. Union County Public Libraries mission is to provide the community with materials, service, and facilities to satisfy its need for information and recreation; to facilitate lifelong learning and to promote the use of public libraries.

In support of this mission and in response to advancing technology, Union County Public Libraries offer community Internet access. Internet information is unregulated. Libraries cannot guarantee the accuracy, authoritativeness, timeliness, or usefulness of information obtained on the Internet and cannot be held responsible for any damages related to the use of such information. Union County Public Libraries do not necessarily endorse the opinions and information found on the Internet, and cannot protect persons from information found personally offensive. We encourage users to evaluate carefully all information for themselves.

All users of the Internet are expected to use these resources in a responsible manner, consistent with the educational and informational purposes for which they are provided, and to follow the rules posted at workstations.

Rules for Computer Use

1. All patrons signing up to use the Internet or parents/guardians of underage children signing up to use the Internet must provide photo ID, usually a valid driver's license or state issued ID card.

2. ALL users must sign an Acceptable Use Agreement.

3. To assure parental guidance in children's use of the Internet:

- Children age 14 and under require a signed parental permission agreement and parental supervision.

- Youth aged 15-17 require a signed parental permission agreement. Youth using computers in areas other than main computer or youth area must be accompanied by parent/guardian.

4. Users must sign up before each session.

- Users may use the computers for one 30-minute session. If there is no one else waiting to use the computer, the patron may sign up for an additional 30 minutes for a maximum of one hour per day.

5. Printing time is included in each 30 minute session. Printing is 10 cents per page.

6. Use of listservs, newsgroups, instant messaging, and chat rooms is prohibited.

7. Library staff will assist Internet users in a manner consistent with other Library services. The availability of staff and needs of other library patrons will necessarily affect how much staff can assist patrons in using the Internet.

8. Users may not

- Add, delete, or modify the installed hardware or software.

- Violate copyright law or software licensing agreements.

- Send, receive, or display text or graphics, lyrics or other materials which may be reasonably construed as obscene.

- Violate local, state, or federal laws or regulations. AR statute 5-68 prohibits the public display of obscenity.

- Use the Internet for commercial purposes.

- Wastefully use finite resources (including printing without paying).

9. Users will close all applications at the end of each session.

10. Failure to use the Internet computers appropriately and responsibly as defined in this acceptable use agreement will result in suspension or revocation of computer and/or Library privileges and/or the filing of criminal charge. For non-criminal offenses:

- First offense - one month suspension of computer privileges

- Second offense -six months suspension of computer privileges

- Third offense -permanent revocation of computer privileges

11. If Internet searching results in disruption of library services, or if patron behavior when using Internet resources becomes inappropriate for a library setting, the Library reserves the right to end the session and to eject the patron from the library.

UNION COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARIES

I have read and understand the Internet Use Agreement above and agree to abide by its rules. I further understand that any violation of the above regulations may result in my Internet access privileges being suspended or revoked, and in fact, that such violations may constitute a criminal offense.

I hereby release, indemnify, and hold harmless, Barton Library and branch libraries, from any and all incidents arising out of my use of the Internet.

___________________________________________

User's name (printed)

___________________________________________ ____________

User's signature Date

Parent or Guardian:

(If you are under the age of 18, a parent or guardian must also read and sign this agreement. Parent or guardian will be asked for identification.)

As the parent or guardian of this minor, I have read the Internet Use Agreement. I understand that this access is designed for educational and research purposes. I recognize that it is impossible for the Library staff to supervise Internet use at all times, and I will not hold them responsible for materials viewed or acquired on the network.

If my child is under the age of 15, I understand that I must at all times supervise his/her Internet use at the library.

I hereby give permission for my child to use the Internet and certify that the information contained on this form is correct.

I hereby release, indemnify, and hold harmless, Barton Library and branch libraries from any and all incidents arising out of my child's /children's use of the Internet.

___________________________________________

Name of Parent/Guardian

__________________________________________ ___________

Signature of Parent/Guardian Date

_____________________

Child's Date of Birth