The Jamestown Philomenian Library provides our patrons with free use of computers, free access to the Internet, and free wireless access. By using a public computer at the Jamestown Philomenian Library, the patron agrees to abide by the following policies and terms, as well as the Public Code of Conduct. Violation of these rules may result in the loss of computer access, library privileges, or expulsion from the library. Library staff have full authority to enforce these policies and procedures as well as policies related to general behavior in the library.
Rules Governing Computer and Internet and Wireless Access & Use
Violations of any local, state or federal statutes are prohibited. Users are responsible for compliance with all copyright notices and restrictions attached to web content as well as applicable state and federal laws.
Library users may bring their own headphones to plug into library computers or purchase earbuds from library staff. Otherwise, the sound on the computers must be turned off.
Files can be temporarily saved to public computers, but will be deleted upon reboot. It is advised that patrons using our computers should bring a portable USB to save their work.
Library users who bring their own devices may connect to the wireless network and plug in their devices to designated outlets. However, they may not use outlets designated for library equipment or in staff-only areas, and they must make sure cords and other peripherals are not in walkways. Personal electronic equipment should be silenced unless headphones are attached.
Computer users agree to take proper care of all equipment that is the property of the library.
Supported software applications installed on all public computers include, but are not limited to: Microsoft Office including Word, Excel, Publisher and PowerPoint, and Internet browsers Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and Google Chrome. Adobe Acrobat Reader is also included.
Computer users may not: ·
- Make any attempt to bypass software on Public Access Catalog computers to gain full computer access
- Use library computers to view or disseminate material considered inappropriate for a public environment such as sexually explicit or suggestive (obscene/pornographic) and racist, anti-LGBTQ+, and anti-Semitic material images or videos
- Invade the privacy of others or engage in any activity that is harassing, bullying, defamatory, or threatening. These behaviors are a violation of RI state law §11-52-4.2 (Cyberstalking and Cyberharassing).
Disclaimers
Patrons use library computers at their own risk. The library makes no guarantees, either expressed or implied, with respect to any technology, equipment, software, or other library materials.
The Jamestown Philomenian Library does not monitor Internet use and cannot be held responsible for its content.
Monitoring a child’s use and access to the Internet is the responsibility of the parent or guardian. The State of Rhode Island offers guidelines for discussing online safety with children at http://risp.ri.gov/safety/internet/parents.php.
Privacy and Security
Patrons should not have an expectation of screen privacy, as all public computers are in view of other patrons and library staff.
Every effort will be made to maintain a secure environment on library networks; however, Internet transactions, communications and activities are potentially vulnerable to unauthorized access.
For more information about the confidentiality of computer records see the Jamestown Philomenian Library’s Statement on Confidentiality and Privacy.
Because library computers are a shared resource available to the public, it is important to log out of all personal accounts before ending your computer session. Assistance Library staff have limited availability to assist users who do not have basic computer skills. The library encourages users who wish to improve their computer skills to schedule in advance a one-on-one training session with a staff member.
Printing
Printing is available from all public computers for a fee (current posted prices). The Jamestown Philomenian Library will only issue refunds for printing if the machine produced a blurred, black or otherwise unreadable copy or if the paper leaves the machine torn or wrinkled. Users should always use the Print Preview function before sending a print job to make sure the number of pages is correct, that no blank pages are included, and that the text on the page is complete.
Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA)
The Jamestown Philomenian Library complies with the federal Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) which requires the use of filtering software on public computers to limit children’s access to material that is (a) obscene; (b) child pornography; or (c) harmful to minors. For more information on CIPA please visit: https://transition.fcc.gov/cgb/consumerfacts/cipa.pdf
Filtering software may not block all material users might find offensive.
Adults, defined by the law as over 17, may choose to use unfiltered computers for bona fide research or other lawful purposes. An authorized library staff member may disable the filtering software if the above criteria are met.
Board approved: 6/13/23
