715-247-5228 | HOURS: 9am-6pm M,W,F | 9am-7pm T,Th | 9am-1pm Sat [email protected]

Internet and Computer Use Policy

by | Aug 27, 2025 | Policy | 0 comments

Internet Access and Computer Use Policy

Purpose

The Somerset Public Library is dedicated to providing access to a broad range of informational, educational, recreational, and cultural resources. To further our mission of fostering an inclusive, ever-evolving community, we offer digital services, including public computer access and broadband connectivity.

Library Responsibilities

  1. Respect for All Library Users: The library is dedicated to fostering a respectful and safe environment for all patrons. Library staff have the authority to terminate any computer session if the content accessed is deemed disruptive or inappropriate for the library setting. This policy is designed to ensure that all users can access library resources in a comfortable and uninterrupted manner.
  2. Unfiltered Internet Access: The library upholds the principle of intellectual freedom by not employing internet filtering on public computers. While some online content may be sensitive, it is the responsibility of users, particularly parents and guardians, to make informed decisions regarding appropriate internet use for themselves and their children.

Patron Responsibilities

  1. Basic Computer Skills: Users should have basic computer knowledge. Staff can provide general assistance but are not able to offer in-depth technical support.
  2. Personal Information: For your privacy, staff cannot assist with entering personal details like passwords or financial information.
  3. Internet Safety: Use caution when handling personal transactions online. The library is not responsible for security issues related to external websites.
  4. Equipment and Networks: Users access library equipment and networks at their own risk. The library is not liable for equipment malfunctions, data loss, damage to personal data, or any issues related to electronic transactions resulting from the use of library resources.
  5. Shared Space: The library is a public space shared by people of all ages and backgrounds. Regardless of the device or its ownership, users must avoid accessing internet sites or content that could be considered inappropriate or disturbing in a public setting.
  6. Library Card Use: Patrons must use their own library card to access a computer. To maintain access your account must be in good standing. If your account has fees of $10 or more, or includes replacement fees, computer access will be restricted until the balance is brought below this limit. Visitors aged 18 and older can receive a temporary library pass by presenting a valid photo ID.
  7. Time Limits: To ensure equal access, computers have time management software. Users are allowed up to two logins or 180 minutes per day. Staff may limit sessions if needed.
  8. Saving Documents: Users cannot save documents on library computers. Please use a personal storage device. The library is not responsible for any data loss.
  9. Supervision of Minors: Parent must opt in on the library card registration form for their child to use the computers. Library staff are not available to supervise children’s internet use, and it is the responsibility of parents and guardians to guide what minors access online.

Prohibited Uses

Library equipment and broadband may only be used for legal purposes. Unacceptable uses include but are not limited to the following:

  1. Inappropriate Content: Sending, receiving, or displaying text or graphics that library staff may reasonably consider offensive to the public.
  2. Protection of Minors: Exposing children to harmful materials as defined in Sec. 948.11 of the Wisconsin Statutes.
  3. Harassment: Engaging in harassment of other users or violating their privacy.
  4. Defamation: Libeling, slandering, or maliciously offending other users.
  5. Copyright and Licensing Violations: Breaching copyright laws or program licensing agreements.
  6. Unauthorized Access: Attempting to crash, degrade performance, or gain unauthorized access to the library’s or other systems and networks.
  7. Damage: Inflicting damage to equipment, software, or data belonging to the library or other users.
  8. Resource Overuse: Excessive use of system resources, such as bandwidth, that may hinder service for other users.

Compliance

Failure to comply with this policy may result in restrictions or loss of library privileges.

Approved 2/3/98
Amended 9/2/98, 10/11/06,
6/2/09, 3/1/16, 10/02/2024