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 material of a controversial nature. 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:

 

• A 60-minute time limit will be enforced if there is a waiting list.  If there is no wait list, patrons may have additional time with no limit. During the summer months patrons will be allowed a total of 120 minutes per day of computer usage due to high demand. The Library reserves the right to allow an extension of minutes or end the session at any time.
• Color copies are available for 50 cents and black & white for 25 cents per page.
• 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.
• Library staff may be able to help with basic computer use and startup procedures.
• Food and Beverages are not allowed at the public computers. Food and beverages can damage valuable resources. Food and beverages are allowed in the library for special group settings but patrons must clean up after themselves, and are responsible for any damage done by their food or drink.
• 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.
• Lake Mills Public Library's internet connection may be temporarily closed down for maintenance or due to technical difficulties.
• As is the case with other materials in the library's collection, any restriction of a child's access to the internet is the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian.
• 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 damages to a patron’s computer or for the actions or consequences of any patron arising from that patron’s use of the library’s resource. The entire responsibility and risk involved in accessing information or the use of the computer lies solely with the user.
• 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 diskette or flash drive may contain a virus.  Patrons are encouraged to have virus-checking software on their own computer.