INTERNET USE AGREEMENT
of the
BUCKS COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARIES

1. The Internet is provided as a service to Bucks County public libraries' users.  However, in fairness to all, we set limits on the length of time individuals may use the Internet.  In most libraries, personal E-mail accounts can be used only on a designated Library PC which has a time limit.  Use of  chat rooms in not allowed.

2. Preference will be given to users who preschedule time over walk-ins.

3. The Internet is a vast, worldwide network which has very few restrictions or limitations.  The public libraries in Bucks County cannot be responsible for inaccurate information or offensive material on the Internet.  A filtered Internet PC is available in the children's area of most libraries.  As an Internet user you, and only you, are responsible for the information you or your child chooses to use or view.

4. Keep in mind that 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 pubic library will not be permitted.  Violation of this provision may result in the immediate termination of your Internet privileges.

5. Failure to comply with the following ethical standards could result in loss of your privileges:

   • No copyrighted material may be copied
   • Payment must be made for all printouts
   • Users must not do anything which will impede the use of the Internet by others
   
   
6. Users must sign an Internet Use Contract form prior to using the Library's computer to access the Internet.  All users under age 16 must have a Parent's Consent Form signed and on file with the Library.  Students younger than the age of 16 must have an adult present while using the Internet.

7. The Reference Desk staff will scan your 3.5 floppy disk for viruses or you may purchase a blank disk for $1.00.  However, we cannot be responsible for any viruses that may be transmitted via Internet files or E-mail to your floppy disks and home computer.

8. Users may not turn equipment on or off, change settings on any computer, plug personal equipment into a computer, or load personal programs onto a library's computer.

APPROVED BY BOARD OF DIRECTORS
November 16, 1999