Huntsville Public Library
Policy Type
Public
Policy Title
Computer and Internet Use Policy
Authority / Created
CEO/Chief Librarian - May 30, 2011
Approved by Board
Revised & Adopted May 10, 2000
Revised & Adopted June 15, 2011
PURPOSE
The Huntsville Public Library Computer and Internet Use Policy supports the library mission
statement of providing all the citizens of Huntsville access to information and resources for
individual enrichment, self-education, culture and recreation.
SCOPE
The Huntsville Public Library Computer and Internet Use Policy applies to all types of computer
usage on the premises of the Library or on the Library network. This includes: library public
computers, laptops and mobile devises using the Library’s wireless network.
DEFINITIONS
In this policy:
Library refers to Huntsville Public Library.
POLICY
Public computer access and wireless access is provided to ensure equitable access to
information and online resources. Wireless access complements public computer access and
enables library customers to access library resources and the Internet with their own wireless
enabled equipment.
The Internet provides access to many resources for different age levels and reflects various
points of view. Customers should be aware that information might not be accurate, complete,
age-appropriate, or current.
Parents and guardians are reminded that the restriction of a child’s use of a Library computer,
including Internet and wireless access, is their responsibility.
Library computers or wireless may not be used to:
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Access sites or transmit materials which violate any Canadian federal or provincial law
or City directive such as defamatory, discriminatory, or obscene materials.
Display overt sexual images.
Upload, post, email, transmit, or otherwise make available any content that is unlawful,
threatening, abusive, harassing, tortuous, defamatory, obscene, libellous, hateful, and
invasive of another's privacy.
Download, view, display, print or otherwise intentionally access any content that is
unlawful and/or obscene.
Impersonate any person or entity, or falsely state or otherwise misrepresent your
affiliation with a person or entity.
Modify or gain access to files, passwords, or data belonging to others;
Seek unauthorized access to any computer system;
Damage or alter a computer’s software or hardware;
Use a public access computer or wireless service for any unlawful purpose;
Use a public access computer or wireless service for the purpose of copying or
distribution of materials that infringe on copyright laws, licensing agreements or other
intellectual property rights.
Engage in any other conduct which interferes with other Library users’ use or enjoyment
of the Library.
Anyone not adhering to this agreement or who wilfully abuses or damages any computer or
software will have their Library privileges suspended and will be legally and financially
responsible for damages.
The Huntsville Public Library assumes no responsibility for Internet content or damages, directly
or indirectly, arising from its website or from its connections to other Internet services.
The CEO/Chief Librarian will as required, report any perceived infractions to the police.
GUIDELINES
A valid library borrower card and PIN are required to login to a computer.
Users must use their own cards to access computers. Customers may be asked by staff to show
their card or additional information.
Huntsville Public Library
Users who do not have library cards should talk to staff about getting a library card or guest
access.
Computer access will be by a first-come, first served basis.
Computers may be used by Library users for 60 minute sessions; guests may use computers for
30 minutes.
Internet usage will be contingent upon demand. Extensions of usage are available if there is no
one waiting for a workstation.
No more than two persons may use a workstation at one time.
As is the case with other materials in the Library’s collections, any restriction of a child’s access
to the Internet is the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian.
Customers may send files to their home computer by email.
Headphones must be worn when using the sound component.
Information services staff will assist you upon request, although we may not be familiar with
every application you might want to use. You are invited to consult the many books, magazines,
and videos about the Internet available at the Library
The Library is not responsible for any infringement of copyright, or any other violation. Users
are required to use the Internet in a responsible and ethical manner. All users must observe all
current applicable laws, including but not limited to copyright laws, licensing agreements and
may not create, access, display or distribute illegal material or material that in the opinion of
the Library staff may be considered obscene, harassing (as defined under the Ontario Human
Rights Code), racist, malicious, fraudulent, libellous, or offensive.
The Library is not responsible for any financial transactions customers may engage in while
using library computers.
The Library is not responsible for reminding users to log off computers and therefore not
responsible for another user inadvertently accessing personal information.
The Internet is an evolving resource; therefore, this policy is subject to change without notice.
Internet access is available through adaptive technology on a designated computer.
PRINTING
The charge per copy is $.25 per page for black and white copies and $1.00 per page for colour
copies.
A charge per copy for printing will be determined from time to time by the Huntsville Public
Library Board.
Customers are financially responsible for all print requests.
Printing is not available via the wireless network.
VIOLATION OF POLICY:
Any user, who introduces a virus, misuses or damages the equipment, attempts to delete or
modify either hardware or software will be prohibited from using this service and will be held
liable for all damages.
The Library Board reserves the right to remove any user’s Internet access and Library privileges
if the user contravenes any Library rules or policies.