Access to Internet Resources
In accordance with its mission to meet the informational, educational, and cultural needs of the community and to encourage the use of current technology for lifelong learning, the Wolcott Public Library provides users with access to the Internet, a resource that allows the library to provide information beyond the limits of its own collection. The Internet provides unlimited access to information of all kinds, both educational and recreational, but is not always a good substitute for other library resources. The Internet is unregulated and access to controversial, inaccurate and incomplete information is unavoidable. The library cannot control and does not accept responsibility for the quality or accuracy of information found on the Internet. Users should use good judgment when evaluating information. Library staff is available to provide assistance and help to identify appropriate and dependable information. Library patrons are encouraged to ask the reference librarian for help in finding the best information for their questions and research.
The Wolcott Public Library provides filtered access to the Internet. As with all library materials, restriction of a minor’s (those under 18 years of age) access is the responsibility of his or her parent/legal guardian. The library staff cannot and does not act in place of the parent/guardian. Parents and legal guardians should guide their children in use of the internet and inform them about materials they should not use.
Confidentiality
The library strives to preserve confidentiality and privacy for all its users. However, absolute privacy for patrons using electronic resources in the library cannot be guaranteed. All users are asked to respect the privacy of other users and not attempt to censor or comment on what others are viewing.
Responsibilities of Users
It is prohibited to use the library’s computers and Internet connection for activities that violate local, state or federal laws. Prohibited activities include, but are not limited to: accessing material that is obscene, pornographic, or harmful to minors, harassing, libeling or slandering others, destruction of or damage to equipment, software or hardware, disruption or unauthorized monitoring of electronic communications, and unauthorized copying of copyright protected materials.
Anything accessed or entered on computers in the library, whether owned by the Library or by the patron, is not secure and may be accessible to others. Internet users who release personal information do so at their own risk.
The library is a public area that is shared by patrons of all ages. The library strives to balance the rights of users with the rights of other patrons and staff to work in a setting free from disruptive sound and noise as well as potentially offensive information or images. It is the user’s responsibility to exercise good judgment when accessing the Internet and to be alert to any information or images that could be considered offensive to other patrons and library staff.
User computer sessions and/or Internet usage privileges will be suspended or revoked if, in the opinion of the library administration, use and behavior at the computer workstations is not in accordance with this policy, or with library computer workstation rules. In addition, any illegal activity involving the use of the library’s computers, will be subject to prosecution by the appropriate authorities.
Approved by the Wolcott Library Board of Trustees
July 7, 2008
Revised August 1st, 2022