Online Public Access Policy

Effective June 14, 2012

The Internet is a worldwide computer network which provides easy access to a massive body of information. The Springville Public Library, under the direction of the Springville Public Library Board, has established this Online Public Access Policy to allow all users to benefit from this technology.

Filtering software (technology protection measure) is used on all public access computers intended for use by minors and adults. The filtering software is configured to protect against access to visual depictions of child pornography, content that is harmful to minors or obscene, and other inappropriate materials subject to this policy or the Springville Public Library collection development policy. This software will block many specific pornographic sites, but it may not block them all. Filtering software restricts access in compliance with Utah Code Sections 9-7-215, 9-7-216, and Utah Administrative Rule R223-2.

The Library will re-evaluate whether to block or unblock a specific site if a patron who is not a minor disagrees with the filtering software’s handling of that site.

The Library is not responsible for the availability or accuracy of information accessible via the Internet. The Internet is an unregulated medium, with access points and content which change rapidly and unpredictably.

The Library assumes no responsibility for any damages, direct or indirect, arising from use of its computers or World Wide Web server or from its connections to other Internet or electronic resources services.

All users will comply with procedural restrictions, such as sign-ups, time limits and printing charges, developed by Library staff to provide for equitable use for all patrons.

As with all library resources and collections, the Library affirms that monitoring the use of the Internet and other electronic resources by any minor child is the sole right and responsibility of the parent or guardian. The Library strongly encourages parents to supervise their children’s Internet and other electronic resources used.

Use of library equipment or network access for illegal purposes is expressly prohibited, including using the computer system to hack another system, send forged e-mail, bulk mail, unsolicited voluminous or frequent e-mail, illegally share or use copyrighted materials, or to fraudulently misrepresent the user’s identity in any communications. Internet users shall not access material that is harmful to minors, obscene or pornographic, including child pornography. Illegal acts involving Library computing resources may be subject to prosecution by local, state or federal authorities.

Users are required to use the Library’s computers in a manner that does not have a detrimental impact on the stability and functionality of the Library’s computer system and its ability to connect to and use other networks and resources. This includes installing or connecting unauthorized technical devices, changing system or software configurations, disconnecting hardware, installing hardware, or changing hardware configurations.
While respecting an individual user’s right to privacy, staff has the right to monitor use of Internet workstations to ensure compliance with this policy.

Inappropriate use of this resource is prohibited and failure to observe the Library’s Online Public Access Policy may result in the loss of Internet and/or Library privileges. Loss of Internet privileges will be for a definite period of time up to one year, to be determined by the Library Director. Any suspension longer than one week may be appealed to the Library Board of Directors.

To report complaints about the policy or its enforcement, ask a librarian for a copy of the Library Board’s procedures and/or a “Reconsideration of the Library’s Internet Access Policy” form.

For additional information concerning the procedures for implementing this policy, ask a librarian for a copy of the Library’s administrative procedures for dealing with the “Enforcement of the Online Public Access Policy.”

Board of Trustees
Springville Public Library
Approved & effective

This policy was reviewed by the Springville Library Director and Board of Trustees on June 14, 2012.

Enforcement of the Online Public Access Policy

When staff members observe a violation of this policy, they are expected to report the violation to their supervisor or the person-in-charge. Patrons in violation of this policy will be given a written warning through the computer management system.

If the problem behavior persists, or in the case of extreme misuse, the patron will be asked to leave the Library for the day. When enforcing library policy, staff members are expected to maintain a calm, non-judgmental attitude and to avoid a loud tone of voice.

The police will be called when patrons refuse to leave the Library after being asked to do so, or when using Library computers to engage in illegal acts.