Internet/Computer Acceptable Use Policy
1. Internet access as an information source at Faulkner/Van Buren Regional Library significantly supplements the library’s existing collection and extends the library’s commitment to enriching life, fostering literacy, stimulating imagination, and inspiring lifelong learning for all area residents. However, while most of the information accessed can be valuable and enlightening, the user may also find materials that are unreliable, personally offensive, or illegal. The library cannot police a global network, and each individual user must take responsibility for his or her own activities on the Internet and for the activities of his or her children.
2. “Computer” shall include any library computer used for any purpose, including with limitation, word processing purposes, or for Internet and electronic mail use. Use of library computers is subject to the library’s Code of Conduct.
3. Patrons may not utilize the library’s computers in violation of any local, state or federal ordinances, regulations or laws, including any activities in violation of Arkansas Codes §5-68-501, §5-68-302, §5-41-103 and U.S. copyright law (Title 17, U.S. Code).
4. Patrons are prohibited from damaging or destroying equipment, software, or data belonging to the library or to other users, including adding, altering or deleting files on library workstation hard drives or other library computer equipment.
5. In order to provide equitable patron access, session length and number of sessions per day may be limited. All computer sessions, regardless of length, count towards the session number total.
6. Patrons must respect the privacy and sensibilities of other users. Patrons are prohibited from engaging in any activity which is deliberately and maliciously offensive, libelous, or slanderous.
7. Printing is available for a per page fee from most computer workstations.
8. To preserve patron privacy and to ensure system functionality, software or files are not permanently saved to the hard disk of any computer. Personal software may NOT be installed on library computers. Work may be saved to a USB device.
9. The library does not provide support for patron’s equipment that is connected to the library’s computers and does not assume any liability for those devices’ functionality, contents, or serviceability.
10. The library does not monitor and cannot control information accessed by patrons through the Internet. Parents and guardians are responsible for guiding their children’s use of the Internet. Parents may wish to visit sites such as www.safekids.com for suggestions on child safety on the Internet.
11. Faulkner/Van Buren Regional Library is committed to providing an environment free from harassment. Users may not display on screens and/or print materials that may be unlawful or prohibited under any applicable federal, Arkansas or local laws.
12. Library staff will offer searching suggestions and patron assistance and time permits. However, staff may not always be available to provide individual training concerning Internet use or computer skills. Interested patrons are encouraged to use manuals and guides available in the library and to attend library-sponsored programs about computer use.
13. Compliance Procedures:
a. Violation of the policies and regulations that govern the use of the library’s public access computers or Internet resources may result in suspension or loss of the privilege to use these resources.
b. Any illegal activity involving the library’s resources or equipment will be subject to prosecution by the appropriate authorities and may result in permanent loss of privileges.
c. The library reserves the right to take appropriate actions to ensure compliance with this policy.
Laptop Computers
1. The user must have an Adult/Teen library card in good standing.
2. The laptop can be used in the library only. Removal of the laptop from the library will be considered theft.
3. The laptop must be checked in at the circulation desk (not left on the desk/table, etc.) when user's time is expired.
4. Laptops should not be left unattended at any time. The patron to whom the laptop is checked out will be responsible for any loss or damage that occurs before it is returned to library staff. The patron will be liable for an amount up to the full replacement cost ($1000) if the laptop is damaged or stolen.
5. Patrons may not save to the hard drive of any library laptop. It is the responsibility of the user to bring a data storage device compatible with the computers. No start-up disks or software from outside the library are permitted. Any changes made to the laptop configuration are undone upon reboot of the laptop.
6. The laptops will be available on a first-come, first-served basis and may not be reserved in advance. The laptop will be lent out for one (1) hour and can be renewed for an additional hour if no one is waiting for it.
7. Library staff may not be available to provide technical support.
8. The library assumes no responsibility for any damage to library users' personal devices, software, files, and/or equipment. Tampering with library equipment or attempting to access or modify the operating system or any other software or programming, including bypassing security functions, is prohibited.
9. The tablets and laptops are governed by the same Internet usage policy as desktops and may not be used to engage in illegal activities or to disturb other patrons. If asked to refrain, you must comply immediately. Failure to comply may result in loss of computer privileges.
Laptops not returned on time will incur overdue fines of 25¢ for each 30 minutes late (during library hours of operation). If not returned by library closing on the day used, the equipment will be assumed lost and the patron's card will be charged the full replacement value. If the equipment is returned undamaged after the replacement value has been charged, the replacement cost will be credited back to the card, and the patron will be charged $25¢ for each 30 minutes overdue (during library hours of operation).
The first time a patron checks out a library laptop, they must complete a Laptop Policy Agreement form indicating they have read and will comply with the policy above. Staff accepting the form will note in the patron's library account record that the agreement is on file. Completed forms should be submitted to the network administrator. Branch managers may also retain copies at the patron's home library branch.
