Acceptable Computer Use Policy
Responsibilities of Computer Users: The West Lafayette Public Library (WLPL) requires computer users to respect the rights and sensibilities of all library users. Some Internet sites are inappropriate for viewing in a public setting. Users should refrain from the use of Internet sounds and visuals that may disrupt the ability of other library patrons to use the library and its resources. Library staff reserve the right to end Internet sessions when sexually explicit or pornographic materials are displayed. (See also Illegal and Unacceptable Uses).
- Internet Safety: Librarians are partners with parents in guiding children to safe and appropriate use of the Internet. Because of requirements of the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) and the Neighborhood Children's Internet Protection Act (NCIPA), WLPL filters all Internet computers. Adult patrons may elect to disable the filter for unrestricted Internet access for any lawful purpose that meets WLPL guidelines. Parents and guardians are responsible for supervising their children's Internet sessions and for letting their children know if there are materials children should not use or view. Parents and guardians are directed to "Child Safety on the Information Highway" (at http://www.safekids.com/child_safety.htm) produced by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and Internet Alliance for assistance on protecting their children.
- Copyright: U.S. Copyright law (Title 17, U.S.C.) prohibits the unauthorized reproduction or distribution of copyrighted materials, except as permitted by principles of fair use. Users may not copy or distribute electronic materials without the explicit permission of the copyright holder. Responsibility for any consequences of copyright infringement lies with the users; the WLPL expressly disclaims any liability or responsibility resulting from such use.
- Software/Hardware: Library software is copyrighted and may not be reproduced. (See also Copyright). Users may not install their own or any other software on library equipment. Users are not permitted to store any software or other data on the Library's computers or alter the programs currently installed on the systems. Anyone tampering with library hardware or software will be denied access to library computers in the future, and also may lose library privileges.
- Disclaimer: Users access the library computer hardware, software and documentation at their own risk. The West Lafayette Public Library is not responsible for equipment malfunction, loss of data, any damages to the user's disks, data or electronic transactions of any type.
- Illegal and Unacceptable Uses: Patrons may use the library computers only for legal purposes. Examples of unacceptable uses include but are not limited to the following:
- Display of sexually explicit or pornographic materials;
- Harassment of other or violation of their privacy;
- Libeling, slandering or maliciously offending other users;
- Violation of copyright laws or software licensing agreements;
- Attempting to crash, degrade performance or gain unauthorized access to WLPL's or other computer systems and networks;
- Damaging equipment, software or data belonging to the WLPL or other users;
- Monopolization or unreasonable consumption of system resources.