Computer Use and Internet Access Policy
Public access to computers, the internet, and online services have become an integral part of the Kellogg Public Library’s programs and services. The intent of this policy is to meet the provisions of the Children’s Internet Protection Act and Idaho Code 33-2741, as well as provide guidelines for patrons and staff regarding internet accessible and online computer use.
With the intention of ensuring that the use of the Internet is aligned with the mission of the Kellogg Public Library the following shall apply:
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Access to the library’s public computers are free of charge with a valid library card or temporary express session code.
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Library card holders’ accounts must be in good standing to utilize computer services. An express session is not an alternative option available for those accounts with outstanding fees or fines.
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Printing is available from all public computers, black & white copies are $.10 per page and color copies are $.50 per page.
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Computers are available on a first come first serve basis.
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Computer sessions are limited to 60 minutes. Multiple sessions are permitted per day. Time extensions are granted at the sole discretion of library staff and based on demand for public computers.
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Patrons who require longer than 60 minutes to complete work (exams, school-related work, resumes, etc.) may request additional session time.
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Attempts to evade or bypass computer time limits may result in temporary suspension or permanent loss of computer privileges.
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Parents and legal guardians are responsible for their children’s use of the computer.
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Patrons who wish to hear audio content must use headphones. Headphones are available at the circulation desk for check-out only.
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Flash drives may be purchased at the library for use in computers.
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Installation or downloading software is not allowed.
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The library’s computers may not be used for any illegal or criminal purposes including but not limited to:
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Attempting to damage computer equipment or software
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Causing degradation of system performance
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Violating copyright laws or software licensing agreements
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Engaging in any activity which is deliberately and maliciously offensive, libelous, or slanderous
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Using the Library’s Internet service to gain unauthorized access to the Library’s networks or computer systems or to any other network system.
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Internet Access
It is the policy of Kellogg Public Library to (a) prevent user access over its computer network to, or transmission of, inappropriate material via internet, electronic mail, or other forms of direct electronic communications; (b) prevent unauthorized access and other unlawful online activity; (c) prevent unauthorized online disclosure, use, or dissemination of personal identification information of minors; and (d) comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act [Pub. L. No. 106-554 and 47 USC 254(h)].
Developed under the direction of the Board of the Kellogg Public Library, this Internet and Online Access Policy was discussed and adopted , following public notice required by Idaho code, during an open meeting of the Library Board on 20 March 2012. This policy supersedes all previous Internet and Online Access Policy statements of the Kellogg Public Library and is effective on 10 April 2012.
This Policy document will be reviewed by the Kellogg Public Library at least every three years.
The Kellogg Public Library’s Internet Access Policy complies with Idaho Code 33-2741 Public Library – Internet Use Policy Required with the Children’s Internet Protection Act [Pub. L. No. 106-554 and 47 USC 254(h)].
The Kellogg Public Library has in place a policy of internet safety for minors, including the operation of a technology protection measure, hereafter called “filtering software,” on any public accessible computer with internet access that protects against access to visual depictions that are obscene, child pornography, or harmful to minors, as defined in I.C. 33-2741 and the Children’s Internet Protection Act. The filtering software will be enforced to provide internet safety during any use of a computer by a minor.
Library policy may also limit internet access or otherwise protect against materials other than the materials specified in Idaho statute.
To the extent practical, steps shall be taken to promote the safety and security of users of the Kellogg Public Library online computer network when using electronic mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, and other forms of direct electronic communications. Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act, prevention of inappropriate network usage includes: (a) unauthorized access, including so-called ‘hacking’ and other unlawful activities; and (b) unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors.
Subject to staff supervision, technology protection measures may be disabled or, in the case of minors, minimized only for bona fide research or other lawful purposes.
It shall be the responsibility of all members of the Kellogg Public Library staff to supervise and monitor usage of the online computer network and access to the internet in accordance with this policy and the Children’s Internet Protection Act.
Procedures for the disabling or otherwise modifying and technology protection measures shall be the responsibility of the Director or designated representatives.
A notice of the availability of this Policy will be posted in a conspicuous place within the library for all patrons to observe.
The Library Board has established procedures and guidelines to handle complaints about this policy, enforcement of this policy by library staff, and what a patron should do if they observe inappropriate behavior by another library patron. A notice of the availability of these procedures for public review will be posted, as well as the policies made readily available to all staff members. These procedures and guidelines will be adhered to by library staff to enforce the requirements of Idaho Code 33-2721 and the Children’s Internet Protection Act.
Adoption date: 20 March 2012
First review date: 18 November 2014
Second review date: 10 January 2018
Third review date: 9 March 2021
Modified/Updated date: 11 May 2021