Internet Use Policy

Purpose:

It is the goal of the Lester Public Library of Arpin to connect people and resources to inspire and inform our community; to succeed, our Library extends access to information and media by offering public Internet access, public access computers, on-line research databases and printing.  This policy has been created to ensure appropriate use of Internet resources within our Library.

Disclaimer:

The Internet enables the Library to provide information beyond the confines of its own collection.  It offers access to ideas, information and commentary from around the world.  However, the Library does not monitor and has no control over the information assessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its content.  It is the responsibility of the user (parent/legal guardian/caregiver) to determine what is appropriate. 

Terms of Use:

  • Obey library policies and procedures while using the provided resources. 
  • Obey all federal, state, and local laws.
  • Respect the privacy of others by not misrepresenting oneself as another user; by not attempting to modify or gain access to any files, passwords, or data belonging to others or to the library.
  • Do not send, receive or display text or graphics, which may reasonably be construed as obscene according to Wisconsin State Statutes Obscenities Law.
  • Downloading and/or saving files (e.g. games, music or chat programs) on the hard drive is not permitted.
  • Users agree not to make changes to the setup or configuration to the Library’s software or hardware.  Copying of software is prohibited.
  • Users agree to log-off properly when they are finished.
  • Patrons attempting to crash, degrade or damage any equipment, software or data belonging to the library will be held financially responsible for any damage they cause to library property.

Copyright:

U.S. copyright law (Title 17, U.S. Code) prohibits the unauthorized reproduction or distribution of copyrighted materials, except as permitted by the principles of fair use.  Users may not copy or distribute electronic materials (including electronic mail, test, images, programs or data) without the explicit permission of the copyright holder.  Any responsibility for any consequences or copyright infringement lies with the user; the library expressly disclaims any liability for responsibility resulting from such use.

Internet Access for Children:

Parents and guardians are responsible for educating children on internet policy.  Parents or legal guardians must read and discuss Rules for Online Safety for Children Under Age 18 and sign and return internet use agreement.

Staff Assistance:

Staff will assist patrons with Internet use as time permits.  Due to limits on staffing, the library is unable to provide extensive, personalized instruction on the use of the Internet.  Library staff will be able to offer searching suggestions and answer some questions.

Consequences for Misuse:

While respecting a user’s right to privacy, library staff reserves the right to monitor use of the Internet workstations to ensure compliance with this policy.  If the library staff observes any behavior, which they judge to be in conflict with this policy, they have the authority to end the user’s session and may ask the user to remove themselves from library equipment/premises.  If said user is a minor, parents/guardians will be contacted immediately.  A user with multiple infractions will forfeit their right to use the library computers.

Printing Charges:

A fee of $.20 cents per page for printing will be charged for any information printed from the internet on the online printer.  Please pay the library staff immediately after your internet session.

Appeals:

Users have the right to a full and impartial review of disciplinary action of a decision they consider unjust.  Appeals may be made by the parent/guardian of the child under the age of 18.  An adult may also make appeals.  To file an appeal:

Adults or parents/guardian of a minor will notify the Library Director of their wish to appeal a disciplinary action.  Disciplinary actions can be appealed at the monthly board meeting, which occurs the first Tuesday of the month.  The Director will inform the adults or parents/guardian of the meeting date and time.  The Library Director will then inform the Library Board President and place it on the agenda.  The Director will also have present for the appeal at the monthly meeting the appropriate staff and any other person(s) involved.

Reviewed and Updated: June 2022