Using the Internet
Modified for wireless access & adopted by the WPL Board February 2010
Revised and approved by Library Board January 2021
The Watonga Public Library will utilize technology to serve as a bridge providing access to information and not otherwise available at the local level through Interlibrary Loan and Internet access.
Overview
The Internet is a valuable source of information that can lead to economic development and improved quality of life, especially in rural communities.
However, since the Internet is an unregulated medium, the library cannot be responsible for the content, accuracy, or availability of information obtained from the Internet. Watonga Public Library Board and Staff believe that Internet access is an important resource that should be available to the public even though some of the ideas and values expressed on the Internet may not be consistent with those of our local community or individuals of the community.
Therefore, Watonga Public Library requests that anyone who wishes to utilize Internet access at the library agrees to the following conditions:
Examples of unacceptable uses include, but are not limited to the following:
- Downloading or printing of copyrighted or illegal material including movies, books, music, and any other copyrighted material
- Any activity that violates the Watonga Public Library Personal Conduct policy
- Harassment of other library users or staff by any means
- Destruction or damage of equipment or other library property
- Any illegal activity as defined by federal or state statute.
- Minors (any one under the age of 18) also agree to the following rules:
Never give anyone personal information such as address, phone number, etc.
Never agree to meet anyone you have met online
Never send a photo or other personal information to anyone you do not know.
Due to requirements under Federal Law, Internet access at the Watonga Public Library will be filtered. The intent of the filter is to protect adults and minors from a) visual depictions that are obscene, b) child pornography, and c) that which is considered harmful to minors (with respect to use of the computers with Internet access).
The library will abide by the requirements set forth in the Children’s Internet Protection Act. Therefore, we will use specific technology to:
- restrict access by minors to inappropriate matter on the Internet
- provide for the safety and security of minors when using electronic mail and other forms of electronic communication
- protect against unauthorized access, including so-called “hacking”, and other unlawful activities by minors online
- restrict minors’ access to materials harmful to minors
IMPORTANT! The presence of filtering software does not guarantee that ALL offensive sites will be blocked. Parents are encouraged to talk to minors about Internet Safety. The user will not hold the library or the City of Watonga responsible for the content or availability of material on the Internet. A parent who are concerned about their children’s activity online should monitor the child’s Internet session.
Any questions regarding the filter or this policy should be directed to the Library Director.
The staff is trained and willing to help you. Please ask for help as needed. We are here to help you and to provide a service to the community.