DORA B. WOODYARD MEMORIAL LIBRARY
INTERNET ACCESS AND USE POLICY
Updated 01/05/2022
PUBLIC ACCESS
Public access to the Internet is available to all users of Dora B. Woodyard Memorial Library. The internet is made available as an information and educational resource in support of our role as our community’s learning center. In accordance with safeguarding First Amendment rights, our library’s internet use will be equally accessible to all library users.
STAFF ASSISTANCE
Library staff will assist users who are getting started on the internet. However, staff members cannot offer extensive explanations or provide in-depth training. Staff members will try to answer questions and offer suggestions for searching. Library books, manuals, and internet training opportunities will also be made available.
USER RESPONSIBILITIES
Realizing that not all resources received via the internet are accurate, users are encouraged to evaluate the validity of electronic information. The library makes no guarantees with respect to the quality or content of the information available on the internet. Users are also cautioned that, because security in this type of electronic environment cannot be guaranteed, all communications are vulnerable to unauthorized access. Black and white printing charges are $0.15 per page and colored printing charges are $0.50 per page.
Library patrons are to sign in by checking in with a librarian before using a computer. They will ask for the patron’s name and library card for usage data tracking purposes. Time limits of use may be enforced during times of heavy computer use.
Since library computers are located in public areas, which are shared by library users of all ages, individuals are asked to consider this when accessing potentially controversial information and images. Library staff cannot consistently and effectively monitor use of the internet. Yet, the library staff reserves the right to ask individuals to discontinue the display of information/images which may cause a disruption.
In accordance with the library’s role as a provider of the internet as an educational and informational resource:
- Users will not be permitted to use the library’s internet connection to conduct a business or commercial enterprise.
- All patrons (including those not yet 18 years old) are advised that it is illegal to access any sites or graphic images which might be considered to be obscene, to be child pornography, or in any way harmful to minors.
- Users are prohibited from unauthorized access (“hacking”) on computers.
- Users will respect intellectual property rights by observing copyright and license laws
- Users will refrain from damaging or altering settings of library computers
- Users will not engage in music video sites, chat rooms, or game-playing sites.
CHILD SAFETY ON THE INTERNET
Parents and guardians are responsible for the internet information accessed by their children. Therefore, a parent or guardian must be present with any primary or middle school-aged child who accesses the internet. High school students will provide a signed document from parents stating their permission for internet use.
The unauthorized discloser, use, and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors is prohibited. In compliance with the Neighborhood Children’s Protection Act (NCPA), steps will be taken to promote safety and security of minors when using any type of electronic communication.
COMPLIANCE WITH LIBRARY POLICY
Anyone violating this policy will be asked to terminate their internet session and may be denied future internet access. High school students will follow all established rules set forth in the Wirt County Schools Internet Access Policy and will face any necessary disciplinary action stated in that policy.
Adapted by the Dora B. Woodyard Memorial Library Board of Trustees
Date: ______________________________________________
Board President: _____________________________________