Access to the Internet on Library Computers

Introduction

All branches of the Dayton Metro Library offer public access to the Internet through a project called OPLIN, opens a new window. Through OPLIN we are able to offer free access to a number of premium database and information services including the full text of magazine and newspaper articles, encyclopedias, atlases and other reference materials. Due to licensing restrictions access to some of these premium resources is only available from computers located in the library.

Access to the Internet from machines located in the library is free although there will be a charge for printing. Time limits may also be imposed if demand warrants.

Before using library computers to access the Internet, please read the following documents. Printed copies are available in the help packets we have prepared for you. Parents of children and young adults are particularly encouraged to read documents we have prepared for you.

Internet Safety & Acceptable Use Policy

  1. POLICY
    • Internet Safety & Acceptable Use Policy
      In support of the Library's Mission, "...to connect our community to the broadest range of information and thought..." the Dayton Metro Library provides access to on-line information resources for use by patrons and staff. In addition to locally created content and information purchased or leased from commercial providers, the Library promotes and supports access to the Internet by all. The Library supports access through computers it provides in the Library, through training classes and through staff assistance. 

      The Internet provides a wealth of unique and valuable content that meets the varied interests and needs of our community. The Internet also provides unique mechanisms for manipulating and sharing information and thought. The Internet is an essential tool for completing the Library's mission. However, this medium provides risks and challenges. The currency and accuracy of information obtained over the Internet may be suspect and all users need to use caution. In addition, some information on the Internet, particularly explicitly sexual imagery, is inappropriate for viewing in a public library.

    • Board Policy on the Use of Filters
      Providing access to the Internet presents a dilemma for the Dayton Metro Library. On one hand, the Library has upheld a commitment to the free flow of ideas and support of First Amendment rights of library users by offering the widest range of information resources possible through a documented selection process. On the other hand, the Library's tradition of selection is voided by the openness of the Internet. The Dayton Metro Library Board has adopted a policy of filtering Library computers but with an understanding that the use of filters can only serve as an initial screen to alert users of material that may be inappropriate in a Library setting or for some library users. The Board recognizes that ultimately the appropriateness of online content needs to be determined locally. 

      The following guidelines are provided to assist all patrons of the Library. The Library provides access to the Internet, word processing, spreadsheet, presentation and other productivity software at no charge to the user from computers available at the Library. Patrons are encouraged to ask for assistance, however, staff trained on the use of the Internet service may not always be available during Library hours of operation.

  2. REGULATIONS
    In compliance with the requirements of the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA), which requires public libraries to use a technology protection measure, the Board has authorized the use of content filtering software on all Library owned computers with direct access to the Internet. This policy's intent is to prohibit the intentional viewing of sexually explicit imagery, including "visual depictions that are (a) obscene; (b) child pornography; or (c) harmful to children" as defined by CIPA.      

    The Board recognizes that technology protection measures can only filter an approximation of the scope of content outlined by CIPA and this policy. Technology protection measures fail to block some visual depictions that could be deemed obscene, child pornography or harmful to children. In addition, all technology protection measures will block some materials that are appropriate for use within the Library and beyond the scope of filtering intended by CIPA and this policy.

    In recognizing the deficiency of such technologies and in compliance with the United States Supreme Court requirement that filters may be employed in public libraries if there is a mechanism to disable the filter for adults without significant delay, a filter bypass feature is available to adult patrons. Any adult patron, 18 years of age and over, may elect to bypass the filter by entering his/her library card number. With the filter disabled the adult patron may assess the appropriateness of the blocked material. No record of patrons who disable the filter will be recorded or maintained. Minors may request to have a filter disabled for bona fide research or other lawful uses, but may not use the card number of an adult to directly disable the filter. No library patron, regardless of age, is to disable the filter with the intention of viewing visual depictions prohibited by this policy.

  3. DISCLAIMERThe Library Board understands that technology protection measures are not perfect. No filtering software product on the market today is 100% effective in blocking every sexually explicit Internet site since new ones are added every day from all over the world. The Board cannot guarantee that sexually explicit material will not get past the filter or that there will not be other sites to which another patron or a parent might object.
  4. Parental ResponsibilityAs with books and other materials available at the Library, guidance of a child's access to the Internet and the information available is the responsibility of the parent, legal guardian or caregiver. Parents are encouraged to work with their children to develop acceptable rules for Internet use in the Library and at home.The Board has special concerns about the use of the Internet by children and cautions parents to take special steps to ensure the safety of their children when using the Internet in the Library and elsewhere:
  5. Filtering products are particularly unsuited for protecting the safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms, and other forms of direct electronic communications.
    • Filtering products are less successful in restricting access to materials harmful to minors.
    • All Internet users must take precautions to prevent the unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal identification information, particularly of minors.Incorporated into this Internet Safety Policy are the Dayton Metro Library's Guidelines for Use of Library Owned Computers that governs Internet access on Library computers, including restrictions regarding the use of email and chat.Revised Policy Adopted by the Board September 15, 2004

Internet Safety & Acceptable Use Guidelines

I. POLICY

The following guidelines are provided to assist all patrons of the Library. The Library provides access to the Internet, word processing, spreadsheet, presentation and other productivity software at no charge to the user from computers available at the Library. Patrons are encouraged to ask for assistance, however, staff trained on the use of the Internet service may not always be available during Library hours of operation.

II. REGULATIONS

Before using the Library's Internet service, patrons must read and agree to abide by the policies and procedures of the Library as set forth in the Dayton Metro Library Internet Safety and Acceptable Use Policy and these guidelines.

Guidelines may vary slightly at each Library location depending on physical constraints, number of workstations available, and the amount of use by the public.

III. GUIDELINES

Patrons agree to abide by the following guidelines when using the Library's internet service:

  • In consideration of other Library users, VIEWING OF SEXUALLY EXPLICIT SITES IS PROHIBITED BY LIBRARY BOARD POLICY.
  • The Internet computers are available, subject to periodic maintenance, during the Library's normal hours of operation.
  • Use of the Internet computers is on a "first come, first served" basis. Patrons are required to sign up to use a computer for Internet access. Library cards and guest logons are used to reserve computers, to maintain computer sessions and to track printing from computers. No record is kept connecting Library card numbers to web sites visited. The PC
  • Reservation system does not retain individual information about signups past the day the reservation is made.
  • Users may sign up for only one session at a time. Internet sessions may be of limited time if others are waiting. Users must leave the assigned computer at the end of the session.
  • Session extensions may be granted when no one is signed up for that computer and extended time will be included in calculations for an individual's allotted time for the day.
  • Users may sign up for only one session at a time. Internet sessions may be of limited time if others are waiting. Users must leave the assigned computer at the end of the session.
  • Session extensions may be granted when no one is signed up for that computer and extended time will be included in calculations for an individual's allotted time for the day.
  • Users may sign up for only one session at a time. Internet sessions may be of limited time if others are waiting. Users must leave the assigned computer at the end of the session.
  • Session extensions may be granted when no one is signed up for that computer and extended time will be included in calculations for an individual's allotted time for the day.
  • Users will respect the privacy of other users, and will refrain from attempting to view or read material being used by others.
  • The Library will not be held liable for damages to personal data and removable media. Despite the Library's attempt to protect users from viruses, please be advised that complete protection is not possible.
  • There is a printing charge. The Library does not charge for printing Library catalog holdings and personal account information.
  • The Library will not create or maintain electronic mail or chat-room accounts for patrons.
  • Popular web-based e-mail and chat-oriented services may be accessed using Library computers, however, the display of sexually explicit imagery is prohibited.
  • Only authorized Library employees are permitted to install software on Library computers. Downloading of files from public access computers may be done on removable media only. USB flash drives may be purchased at the Library for a minimal charge.
  • Use of any computer is for LEGAL purposes only. Use of the workstation for any ILLEGAL purposes including software piracy and copyright violations is NOT permitted.
  • Use of any Library computer for any activity that is deliberately offensive, or creates an intimidating or hostile environment is prohibited.
  • Use of any Library computer for unsolicited advertising, chain letters, spreading of viruses and/or any other practice that interferes with the use by others is prohibited.
  • Any efforts to bypass the security of the Library's computer network, hacking, and/or other misuse of the Library's Internet computers is prohibited.

IV. COMPLIANCE

Library patrons who fail to abide by the Library's Internet Safety and Acceptable Use Policy and the above Guidelines are in violation of the Library's posted Code of Conduct. Failure to comply with these guidelines will result in loss of Internet service and in extreme or repeated cases may result in the loss of other Library privileges.

Revised Policy Adopted by the Board March 15, 2006

DISCLAIMER

Internet / Ohio Public Library Information Network Use

Library patrons using the equipment and facilities of the Dayton Metro Library to access the Internet and its available resources are cautioned that the networked information available via this service is not generated by the Library. The Dayton Metro Library, through the Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN), provides access to reference databases of general and special periodical materials, reader's advisory services, homework centers to assist students with research assignments, and legislative, historical and archival materials and information. However, through the use of the Internet, a wide variety of information and material on virtually any subject is available.

Information available through this service is not warranted by the Library to be accurate, authoritative, factual or complete. The availability of networked information via this service does not constitute any endorsement or ratification of that information. The Library is not responsible for the content of networked information via this service. The use of this service to engage in any activity which constitutes violation of local, state and/or federal laws is strictly prohibited.

All users of this service agree to hold the Library harmless from any and all claims, losses, damages, obligations or liabilities, directly or indirectly relating to this service and/or the networked information available via this service, caused thereby or arising therefrom. In no event shall the Library have any liability for lost profits or for indirect, special, punitive or consequential damages or any liability to any third party, even if the Library is so advised of the possibility of such damages.

Adopted by the Board July 17, 1996

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