Plainfield Public Library Acceptable Use Policy and Disclaimer

This document is a library-wide policy for the management and use of computer data networks and the resources they make available, as well as for the use of stand-alone computers owned and administered by the Plainfield Public Library. The use of this technology is a privilege and voluntary. Failure to comply with the guidelines in this policy may result in the loss of the right to use computers within the library.

Freedom of expression is the foundation for self-government. This freedom encompasses the right to freedom of speech and the corollary right to receive information. Such rights extend to minors as well as adults. Libraries facilitate the exercise of these rights by providing access to information regardless of format or technology. In a free and democratic society, access to information is a fundamental right of citizenship. In order that all members of the community have access to electronic information, the library will provide publicly-supported Internet access.

The Plainfield Public Library assumes no responsibility for any direct or indirect damages arising from the use of its connection to Internet services. The library cannot control the resources on the Internet. The Internet is not a static entity. It changes each minute as new computers connect and existing computers add or delete information. Some sites accessible via the Internet may contain material that is innacurate, defamatory, illegal or potentially offensive to some people. While the library can attempt to prevent direct access to materials that would not generally be acceptable in a public library, it is technically impossible to prevent access to all resources that might be objectionable to some people. Users are responsible for material that is accessed.

Parents or guardians of minors are responsible for monitoring material accessed by minors. The library seeks to preserve minors' status as full members of the Internet community, while at the same time providing parents and guardians with the tools and the responsibility for guiding their Internet use. Electronic information research skills are now fundamental to the preparation of citizens and future employees. Access to the Internet enables learners to explore thousands of libraries, databases, bulletin boards and other resources. The time spent guiding and monitoring minors' use of the Internet is time well spent by parents and guardians.

The library's computer data network stations are intended for information gathering only. Public use of electronic mail, newsgroups and other interactive services is prohibited. These functions take a great deal of time, and with limited resources available, the library must ensure that every patron will be able to use the networked stations without long delays.

It is strictly prohibited to use the library's computers for illegal or criminal purposes or to seek access into unauthorized areas. Users must respect all copyright laws and licensing agreements pertaining to software, files or other resources obtained via the computers. Users whose conduct violates federal, state or local laws will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Users must refrain from inappropriate Internet conduct. Examples of inappropriate conduct include: misrepresentation of oneself or the library, sending chain letters, using abusive or objectionable language in either public or private messages, engaging in harrassing behavior such as sending or posting slanderous, libelous, obscene or threatening messages and other activities that could cause congestion and disruption of networks and systems. The library reserves the right to review any material stored in files to which all network users have access, and will remove any material which, in the library's opinion, does not comply with policy guidelines.

Revised August 18, 1996  Copyright 1996