Internet Use and Safety Policy

1. INTRODUCTION

Siouxland Libraries provides access to a broad range of information resources, including those available through the Internet. Internet service is available as part of the library’s mission to connect users to a world of ideas and information to enrich their lives. The Internet is a largely unregulated medium of information and communication. Siouxland Libraries does not monitor information provided through the Internet, and this information is not necessarily current, accurate or complete.

2. FILTERING BY SIOUXLAND LIBRARIES

In accordance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA), all library computers are equipped with filtering software. The software is set to screen out sites which may reasonably be construed as obscene, as that term is defined in section 1460 of title 18, United States Code; or child pornography, as that term is defined in section 2256 of title 18, United States Code; or harmful to minors as defined in section 1703, Pub. L. 106-544. Users 18 years of age and older may request that a staff member disable the filtering software for bona fide research or other lawful purposes.

3. INTERNET ACCESS BY MINORS: REGULATIONS AND RESTRICTIONS

Siouxland Libraries provides computer access to minors, including filtered access to the Internet and software to support academic achievement. Siouxland Libraries participates in the federal funding E-rate program – a program that makes certain communications technology more affordable for eligible schools and libraries and therefore complies with the requirements set forth by CIPA.

To the extent practical, steps shall be taken to promote the safety and security of users of Siouxland Libraries’ online computer network when using electronic mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, and other forms of direct electronic communications.

Specifically, as required by CIPA, 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.

4. PARENTAL RESPONSIBLITIES

Siouxland Libraries strongly suggests parents supervise their minor children’s Internet use since filtering software may not be able to filter all information that may be harmful to minors. Some parents may deem that certain unfiltered materials are also unsuitable for their minor children.

Siouxland Libraries also encourages parents to discuss the use of the Internet with their minor children in relation to family values and boundaries.

5. GENERAL RESPONSIBLITIES OF USER

Use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right. Siouxland Libraries expects patrons, in order to keep their privileges intact, to use the resources in a responsible manner. Responsible use of the Internet at the library includes, but is not limited to the following:

  • complying with the library’s Rules of Conduct;
  • refraining from illegal or unethical use of the Internet;
  • respecting copyright laws by making only authorized copies of copyrighted materials;
  • recognizing that library computers are available for use by many customers and adhering to library established time limitations;
  • not sending, receiving, or displaying inappropriate materials, whether text or graphics, which may reasonably be construed as obscene as determined by local community standards;
  • not altering hardware or software;
  • not misrepresenting one’s self, by access code, password or signature;
  • respecting the privacy of others;
  • not violating federal, state, local or other applicable law or library policy (including SDCL 43-43B – 1 through 8, Unlawful Uses of computer; SDCL 22-24-56, Access to obscene materials).

Violations may result in loss of library privileges or access, as outlined in the Siouxland Libraries Discipline Policy. Unlawful activities will be referred to the appropriate legal authority and will be dealt with in a serious and appropriate manner.

6. DISCLAIMER

Siouxland Libraries is not responsible for any damages, direct or indirect, or for any liability that may arise from a patron’s use of the library’s Internet services. Internet users should be aware that the Internet is not a secure medium. It is possible for third parties to obtain information regarding an individual user’s search activities. Users should be very cautious about providing personal information over the internet.

7. ADOPTION

This Internet Use and Safety Policy was adopted by the Siouxland Libraries Board of Trustees at a public meeting, following normal public notice, on May 8, 2019.

 

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