7/13/1999 BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES Minutes

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MASHPEE PUBLIC LIBRARY ACCEPTABLE USE INTERNET ACCESS POLICY ACCESS: Public Access to the Internet is through the library's automated network,CLAMS. Most workstations are text-based because of telecommunications limitations in our access. Patrons are requested to limit their use of any graphic access workstations to twenty minutes. Many patrons would like a chance to use the graphical based workstation, so this limit is instituted to allow the greatest number of patrons to share use of this equipment. The library's PAC's have text-based access available through the Massachusetts Library Information Network(MI.IN). These units also serve as the library's computerized catalog, so patrons are requested to keep internet searches on these stations brief. To access the internet at the library,choose the box which says Chose Database. On the next screen, select MLIN. Follow the on screen directions to access the Internet. The library does not currently provide e-mail access for patrons. Printing can be very time consuming, so be sure you know the length of an article before you begin printing. Beyond three pages,you may purchase paper at the circulation desk at .15 per page. This helps the library pay for paper and printer cartridges. PATRON RESPONSIBIIdTY: The Internet stations are visible and audible to other patrons and staff of the library. Small children may be in the area while you are using the Internet. Patrons are asked not to visit inappropriate sites which may be offensive to other patrons and library staff. If you choose to use the library's equipment, please be \\ considerate of others and abide by this rule. Patrons ignoring this request will be asked to leave a site or log off if they have been reminded of this requirement more than once. Please do not bookmark sites on the library's computer. Only sites added by library staff will be retained. Others will be removed. If you wish to save files,use a floppy disk. Information should not be saved to the hard drive as any user would have access to that information. Inquire at the circulation desk if you need to purchase a disk for saving your files. Information found on tht:Internet is not always accurate or current. Evaluate a site for reliability and accuracy just as you would a printed source of information. Consider the qualifications of the individual or organization which has posted the information on the Internet. The library cannot take responsibility for the accuracy of information which patrons find on the Internet. The library uses the same guideline for children's Internet access as for their access to other forms of library materials. Parents need to monitor what materials their children use, regardless of format and let their children know what restrictions the parents have on the types of materials their children may use. Library staff cannot assume this parental responsibility. Some material may be inappropriate for children. Parents should discuss with their children what types of information they feel is inappropriate for their children and discuss why they should not visit such sites. Parents are welcome to use the Internet with their child. The library abides by the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights and a copy of this document may be obtained at the library. Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees,July 13, 1999