The Bristol Public Library offers access to information resources on the Internet via the Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN). Internet access is one component of the library's mission to provide free access to resources which will meet the informational needs of its patrons.
The Internet is a worldwide computer network which provides access to vast sources of information. Not all Internet sources provide accurate, complete, or current information, and some may be objectionable. Most of the information available is not generated by the Bristol Public Library or OPLIN.
Users may not always be able to access the sites selected due to restrictions or changes in the host computer or technological problems. The Bristol Public Library is not liable if access is not available all of the time.
The library does not monitor and has no control over the information accessed through the Internet, and is not responsible for its content. Users are responsible for determining that the information they access is acceptable, reliable, and suitable to their needs.
The library maintains lists of search sites and databases. Library staff are available to provide assistance with library search software, help identify appropriate sites, and locate the information needed by the user, as time permits.
As with all library materials, any restriction of a child's access to the Internet is the sole responsibility of the parents or legal guardian. Library staff can not control the databases that children may select on the Internet.
Acceptable use is searching for information for business, educational or recreational purposes and sending or receiving e-mail.
USE OWN E-MAIL ACCOUNT
Library users must set up and use their own e-mail accounts. The library does not provide e-mail accounts.
Unacceptable uses of the Internet include: accessing chat rooms and instant messaging, interactive multiple user games, other forms of direct electronic group communications, conducting business/for profit activities, etc.
Use of computers is on a first come first serve basis. When someone else is waiting, users agree to limit their use to 30 minutes. Users must close all programs when finished and return to the library's main menu. Users agree to sign in and sign out on the library's log each time they access the Internet. The total time a user is permitted to access the Internet each day may be limited, based on public demand. Users agree to limit themselves to two individuals at a computer, unless parents are working with their children.
Downloading to the computer's hard disk is prohibited.
Printing or downloading information or software is subject to copyright law. Software downloaded from the Internet may contain computer viruses. The Bristol Public Library is not liable for damage to any user's computer or any loss of data.
The Internet may not be used for unauthorized, illegal or unethical purposes. The use of the Internet to engage in any activity which constitutes violation of local, state, and/or federal laws is prohibited.
Unacceptable uses of the Internet include:
• misrepresenting yourself as another user
• seeking unauthorized access to any computer system
• attempting to modify or gain access to files, passwords, or data belonging to others
• damaging or altering software components of a network or database
• send, receive, or display text or graphics which may reasonably be construed as obscene or indecent.
• unauthorized copying of copyright protected materials or violation of software license agreements.
• conducting business/for-profit activities.
• plagiarizing of material written by others
Misuse of computer equipment, altering files or configurations on the library's computers or network, and violation of the Internet access policy will result in loss of Internet privileges and computer use for one year and/or other applicable library sanctions. Users may also be subject to legal action. Tampering with computer software may be a misdemeanor or felony, and tampering with computer data is a felony under section 2913.42 of the Ohio Revised Code. At the end of one year, users, who lost privileges, may re-apply for Internet access.
All users must apply for the privilege of accessing the Internet. Custodial parents or legal guardians must grant written permission for their children (under 18 years of age) to use the Internet. All users, custodial parents, or legal guardians must present identification and proof of current address. All Internet users, including parents or legal guardians of children, must receive verbal instruction on acceptable and unacceptable uses before accessing the Internet.