Lake Mills Public Library

 

Computer Use and Internet Access Policy

 

The Lake Mills Public Library is pleased to provide access to electronic resources via the internet through the use of our public access computers. The purpose of providing public internet access is to expose the public to the world of information available on the internet and to provide equal access to that information for all individuals in the community. Since the internet is a global electronic network, the Lake Mills Public Library has no control over the information accessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its content. The internet and its available resources may contain information that is inaccurate, controversial, or offensive. The library will not censor access to material nor protect users from offensive information and is not responsible for the availability or accuracy of information accessed from remote network sites.

 

The following rules govern the use of the library computers:

 

• Individual software may not be installed or used to alter or attach equipment to the library's hardware or to attempt to bypass security features.
• Each user is responsible for complying with copyright law and adhering to software licensing agreements, as well as all local, state, and federal laws including, but not limited to, those concerning fraud, privacy, or obscenity.
• Internet communications shall be considered private, and confidentiality will be encouraged within the limits of public environment, the technology of the equipment, and the requirements of law.
• Parents or guardians, not the library or its staff, are responsible for the information selected and/or accessed by their children. The library will not be responsible for enforcing any restrictions which a parent or guardian may place on a minor’s use of this resource.
• The Lake Mills Public Library makes no guarantees, expressed or implied, with respect to any hardware or software, their quality, performance, or fitness for any particular purpose.  In no event shall the Lake Mills Public Library or its staff be liable for actual, incidental, or consequential damage to a patron’s computer or for the actions or consequences of any patron arising from that patron’s use of the library’s resources. The entire responsibility and risk involved in accessing information or the use of the computer lies solely with the user.
• The library also provides internet access through an unsecured wireless network. Any information accessed or transmitted has the possibility of being intercepted by others without users’ knowledge. There is also a possibility data stored locally on a user’s device could be accessed by others if not properly secured. The library does not assume any responsibility for the safety of personal devices or the data on it. Virus and security protection is the sole responsibility of the wireless user.
• Food and Beverages are not allowed at the public computers.
• Lake Mills Public Library reserves the right to end any patron’s computer session at any time should that be warranted.   
• Violations of these rules may lead to the suspension or revocation of Internet access.

 

WARNING:  Although the Lake Mills Public Library utilizes anti-virus software, there is no guarantee that you will be completely protected from viruses.  Any downloaded material or flash drive may contain a virus.  Patrons are encouraged to have virus-checking software on their own computer.

 

Wireless Internet Policy

In accordance with the American Library Association Library Bill of Rights, the Lake Mills Public Library provides unrestricted access to the Internet. There is no password needed.

By choosing to use this free wireless service you agree to abide by the Library’s Internet Policy that prohibits abusive or illegal activity while using the Library’s Internet service.  

This service is free of charge and subject to the terms and conditions of use as follows:

Limitations & Disclaimers

• Wireless access is provided as a public service free of charge on an as-is basis with no guarantee and no warranty.
• The library does not filter Internet content. Staff may, however, ask users to refrain from printing or displaying certain content on screens open to public sight in order to ensure the secure and comfortable environment of the library.
• Information passing through the library’s wireless access is not secured and could be monitored, captured, or altered by others. There are risks involved with connecting to a public wireless connection, such as possible viruses, malware, loss of data, possible hacking/snooping by others connected, possible hardware/software failure. It is the user’s sole responsibility to protect his/her information from all risks associated with using the Internet, including any damage, loss, or theft that may occur because of use of the library’s wireless access.
• The laptop owner is responsible for setting up their equipment to access the Lake Mills Public Library Wireless network.  Library staff are not permitted to handle your laptop or peripheral equipment. Library staff are not allowed to configure patrons’ laptops, nor can they provide more than general assistance in getting connected to the wireless network.
• The library assumes no responsibility for the safety of equipment; users must always keep their equipment with them.
• In using this free Internet access, you agree and hereby release, indemnify, and hold harmless, the City of Lake Mills, its officers and employees, and any affiliate, from any damage that may result from your use of this wireless access.
• While using this wireless access, you acknowledge that you are subject to, and agree to abide by all laws, and all rules and regulations of the City of Lake Mills, the State of Iowa, and the federal government that is applicable to Internet use. Users found to have violated any laws, including but not limited to those concerning privacy, obscenity, fraud or copyright, while using Library facilities or equipment will have their Internet privileges revoked.
• Any attempt to circumvent library procedures or any unauthorized attempt to access or manipulate library equipment will result in permanent disconnection from the library’s Wi-Fi network.
• At its sole discretion, the City of Lake Mills may terminate this public service at any time without prior notice.

 

 

Reviewed 04/10/2023

Revised 01/06/2026