The Tuscarawas County Public Library System (The Library) offers access to the Internet and other electronic resources and equipment as part of our mission to provide resources for learning and leisure that support, improve, and enrich individual, family, and community life. The Internet, as a global electronic network, enables individuals to search for ideas and information beyond the confines of the Library collection.
- In compliance with the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA), the Library has implemented the following measures to address these issues:
- Internet filtering software that blocks access to sexual imagery is installed on all Library computers and the Library's wireless (WiFi) access.
Library Internet users may not send, receive, or display any text or graphics which may reasonably be construed as obscene. Anyone violating this prohibition will be asked to cease, and may be excluded from the Library.
The Library does not guarantee the accuracy or suitability of the information available on the Internet. Not all information found on the Internet is accurate, current, legal, or acceptable to all individuals. Users are encouraged to be good information consumers by evaluating the validity and appropriateness of information accessed via the Internet. Library staff is available to assist users in their research. In addition, The Library offers scheduled classes on using the Internet.
The Library does not guarantee that the functions of the Library computers, MakerSpace equipment, or the Internet meet any user’s requirements or that the service will be error-free or uninterrupted. The Library is not liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages (including lost profits or data or theft of personal information or personal injury) sustained or incurred in connection with the use, operation, or inability to use or operate the Library’s computers, equipment, or the Internet.
To provide the opportunity for the maximum number of people to access Library Internet and MakerSpace workstations, the Tuscarawas County Public Library System has established daily time limits for computer, equipment and Internet access.
A Tuscarawas County Public Library System card may be required to access the Internet in the Library.
Filtering:
As required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA), and in order to remain eligible for certain federal funding, the Library has implemented software filtering on all of its computers with Internet access and its wireless (WiFi) access. The Library has attempted to select filtering software that best complies with CIPA while providing Library users with the broadest possible access to constitutionally protected speech and information. The Library cannot and does not guarantee that the filtering software will block all obscenity, child pornography, or materials that are harmful to minors. Nor can The Library guarantee that the filtering software will always permit access to sites that may have legitimate research or other value.
Access by Minors:
Internet filtering software should not substitute for individual judgment and/or parental involvement and oversight. Numerous websites are available that offer tips and suggestions for safe Internet usage by kids and teens, such as: www.safekids.com, www.netsmartz.org.
Wireless Network Access:
The Library offers wireless (WiFi) access at all of its locations. Wireless users are bound by the same guidelines stated in this policy. Library staff can provide general information for connecting a device to the wireless network, but cannot troubleshoot problems related to a wireless device or assist in making changes to a device's network settings and/or hardware configuration. The Library cannot guarantee that a device will work with the Library’s wireless access points.
Use of the Tuscarawas County Public Library System's wireless network is entirely at the risk of the user. The Library disclaims all liability for loss of confidential information or damages resulting from that loss. The Library will not be responsible for any damage caused to a user’s hardware or software caused by electrical surges, security breaches,viruses or hacking. All wireless access users are advised to have up-to-date virus protection on their laptop computers or wireless devices.
MakerSpace and Preservation Equipment:
The Library offers MakerSpace and Preservation Station equipment at all of its locations. MakerSpace and Preservation Station users are bound by the guidelines stated in this policy.
While there is no charge for use of this equipment, there may be a charge for consumable materials and supplies provided by the library. Any applicable costs are listed in the Library’s Fines and Fees Schedule. Users are responsible for paying for all use and material costs associated with use of the MakerSpace. Failure to self-report material usage and pay for use of equipment and/or material will result in suspension of MakerSpace use privileges.
Use of the Tuscarawas County Public Library System’s MakerSpace and Preservation Station equipment is entirely at the risk of the user. Users agree to release and hold the Library harmless from any claims for personal injury, property damage, or any other loss in connection with the use of the equipment, including the equipment, tools, and materials therein. The Library offers periodic instructional classes on using The Library’s MakerSpace and Preservation Station equipment including one-on-one sessions when requested.
User Responsibilities:
Because security in an electronic environment such as the Internet cannot be guaranteed, users are cautioned that all transactions, files, and communications are vulnerable to unauthorized access and use. Users are advised to use caution when sending personal information over the Internet.
While accessing the Internet at The Library and using the MakerSpace equipment, users must comply with the Library’s Patron Behavior Guidelines and all applicable federal, state, and local laws. Illegal or abusive use of Library computers and the internet is prohibited. Such use includes, but is not limited to:
- Harassing or threatening other persons
- Tampering with, vandalizing, degrading, or disrupting the Library computers, equipment or another system
- Gaining unauthorized access to computer systems and networks
- Logging off, turning off, unplugging, or rebooting the equipment
- Unauthorized downloading of copyrighted material
- Violating any local, state, or federal ordinances, regulations, or laws
- Installing application software on Library computers
Approved by the Tuscarawas County Public Library Board of Trustees on April 16, 2018.
Effective May 9, 2018.