Computer Use Policy

The Tippecanoe County Public Library offers access to electronic resources, including those on the Internet, in keeping with its mission to provide diverse and well-rounded collections that meet the educational, informational and recreational needs of the community. The Library historically has made information available in a variety of formats–from book, newspaper and magazine, to audio-visual, video and now electronic. The interactive, linked and multimedia information on local CD-ROMs and at remote Internet sites are valuable additions to the TCPL collections.

Disclaimer

The Tippecanoe County Public Library is responsible only for the information in its own databases. TCPL has no control over the resources on the Internet and is not responsible for the content of any external site linked to the Library. Users are responsible for the information they encounter on the Internet. The parents or legal guardians of minor children are responsible for their children’s use of the Internet at the Library.

The Library assumes no responsibility for any direct or indirect, incidental or consequential damages arising from the use, operation, or inability to use its electronic resources.

Conditions

The Tippecanoe County Public Library treats information in its user files and transition logs as confidential. Such information will be released only for an administrative need, individual user request, and legal requirement.

Computers providing access to electronic resources will be located to allow library staff to provide assistance and security as needed. Procedures will be established to facilitate equal and open access for all users, including people with disabilities.

Operating systems and software application programs may be limited for security, management, and budgetary reasons.

Acceptable Use

All users of the electronic resources are expected to use them in a lawful, ethical, and responsible manner. Internet service in the Youth Department is to be used as an extension of the collection in that department. Therefore, sites accessed should be appropriate for the Youth Department.

Unlawful, misuse, or abuse of computer equipment or materials will result in the suspension or termination of user access to these resources. Staff use of computers is governed by Staff Computer Use Guidelines.

Computer Use Rules

Attached to this Policy is a set of rules pertaining to general computer use in the library and a “Rules of the Road” which applies specifically to computer use in the Youth areas of the library. Each time an individual logs onto a computer, the user will be required to read and agree to these policies and rules online.

Library patrons under the age of 18 who wish to use unfiltered workstations are required to provide the written consent of a parent or legal guardian.

This policy is consistent with Library policies on material access, collection, and use. It will be included in the Personnel Manual, posted at public computers, and available online. The Library administration will be the sole arbiter of these cases.

Adopted by the Tippecanoe County Public Library Board on July 2, 1996.
Revised and approved: 09/01/98, 11/01/99, 6/01/04