Internet Access Policy

The mission of the Highland Township Public Library is to provide local residents with access to materials and services for information, education, culture and recreation. It is to further these goals that the Highland Library offers public access to the Internet. Library policy for public Internet use affirms our commitment to First Amendment rights, intellectual freedom, user privacy and confidentiality, and individual responsibility in lawful use of these resources.

The Library makes no guarantee with respect to the quality or content of information available on the Internet. The Internet user may find material which is inaccurate or which s/he personally finds controversial or offensive. Library staff may be able to offer starting suggestions or search tips but individual users must assume responsibility for determining content. Parents/guardians of minors are advised that they must assume responsibility for, and any restriction of, their children’s use of the Internet through the library connection. Library staff cannot act in place of or in absence of the parent. Parents are encouraged to work closely with their children in selecting material that is consistent with personal and family values and boundaries.

Library patrons are expected to use library resources in a responsible manner. Materials brought up on any public access computer at the library are considered on display for public viewing. Patrons should be sensitive of others’ values and beliefs when accessing potentially controversial information and images. The library reserves the right to ask individuals to discontinue the display of information and/or images which cause disruption.

Internet computers may be used for lawful purposes only. Unacceptable use may include, but is not limited to, harassment of others, access of illegal materials including child pornography, destruction of equipment, software or data not their own, disruption or unauthorized monitoring of electronic communications, violation of copyright and/or violation of privacy, and solicitation of minors. Misuse of library computers for Internet Access will result in loss of computer privileges. Illegal acts, as may be defined by applicable local, state, or federal law, involving the Library's Internet Access service may be subject to prosecution.

Conditions and terms of use

1. Prospective users agree to abide by the posted policy. Youth under 18 years of age using library equipment will be required to use a filtered workstation unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

2. Use of the Internet will be on a first come, first served basis. Internet use may be restricted when others are waiting.

3. Library staff are not able to provide in-depth instruction apart from scheduled Internet class sessions, but may be able to offer suggestions.

4. Patrons accessing the Internet from the Library using their own equipment (either wired or wireless Internet access) are expected to abide by the same rules established in this Internet Access Policy with regard to responsible and lawful use. Violators may be asked to leave the Library.

5. Misuse of the computer for Internet Access will result in loss of computer privileges.