INTERNET ACCESS POLICY

BUCKS COUNTY FREE LIBRARY

The primary purpose of Internet access in Bucks County public libraries is to serve as an access point for information not otherwise available. Access to electronic information and communication is a privilege granted to library users.

It is a felony offense on the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania "To display or cause to display any explicit sexual material...on any...viewing screen in such a manner that the display is visible...in any establishment where minors, as part of the general public, may be exposed to view all or any part of such materials." (Penna. Crimes Code - Sect. 5903.)  Therefore, viewing of such material in the public library in view of minors or by minors will not be permitted.  Violation of this provision may result in the immediate termination of your Internet privileges.

Because parents or guardians may feel that some information available through the Internet is not suitable for viewing by children in their care, parental supervision is strongly advised. Filtered computer use is available to children, either via filtered computers or recommended children's web sites on the Library's web page. Parents or guardians, and not the Library or its staff, are responsible for all information found by children on Library computers.

Adults and children are cautioned to inform themselves of proper safety and security when choosing to access communication resources such as electronic mail. Adults and children are cautioned, as well, to inform themselves of the potential danger in disclosing personal information via the Internet.

Proper use of the Internet is the responsibility of the user, who, by using the Library's Internet computers, agrees to comply with all Library rules and laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the United States. Illegal use of Library computers, including violations of intellectual property rights and unauthorized electronic access ("hacking") may result in loss of privileges.

1. The library may require all computer users to read and sign Internet use agreements stating they will abide by Library Internet policy and computer use procedures.
2. Library staff members will assist users in the basic use of Internet resources. The emphasis is on a simplified self-service approach that minimizes the need for future staff assistance.
3. The Library may set time and work station limits on Internet use of computers in its buildings to ensure that computer access is fairly shared in our communities, and that computer use is consistent with our primary mission. This includes workstation or network limits to communication resources such as e-mail or chat.
4. The Library may impose sign up systems and limit the number of persons seated per computer to ensure that computer use is orderly and behavior and safety standards are met.
5. The Library may charge and collect fees for computer printouts.

This revision adopted by BOARD OF DIRECTORS
June 18, 2002