305: COMPUTER & INTERNET USE SAFETY POLICY

The Board of Trustees has established the following policy to guide the access to public computers and the internet to library patrons. The Board of Trustee’s intent is to provide access that fairly and effectively serves the diverse needs of patrons. Offering free public access to the internet is consistent with the library’s mission to support lifelong learning. The library's policy in this regard reflects the principles articulated in the following statements by the American Library Association:

• Library Bill of Rights

• Access to Digital Information, Services and Networks

• Freedom To Read Statement

INTERNET ACCESS

The Markham Public Library provides its patrons with free, unfiltered access to the internet via public computers and its wireless network.

The Library requires patrons using the internet do so within the guidelines of acceptable use. Unacceptable uses include, but are not limited to:

a) Hacking

b) Fraud

c) Use of peer to peer or other file sharing software

d) Violation of copyright laws or software licensing agreements

e) Accessing illegal sites

f) Harassment of other patrons

g) Destruction of or damage to equipment, software, or data belonging to the library or other patrons

h) Behaving in a manner that is disruptive to other patrons

Markham Public Library does not monitor, and has no control over the information accessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its content.

CHILDREN’S ACCESS TO THE INTERNET

With respect to any of the computers with internet access, the Library uses technology protection measures in order to:

1. Protect minors against access through such computers to visual depictions which are obscene, constitute child pornography, or are otherwise harmful to minors.
2. Protect all users against access through such computers to visual depictions that are obscene or constitute child pornography.

Parents and legal guardians are responsible to monitor their children’s use of Library computers and the internet as they deem necessary, and are encouraged to supervise their children’s internet sessions. The Library does not serve in loco parentis (in place of parents).

DESKTOP COMPUTERS

The Library offers desktop computers for use by any patron. Computers may be used by patrons holding a valid Markham Public Library card. Non-residents may also sign on using a guest pass. The Library offers public use computers in the Computer Lab and in the Children’s room.