Internet and Computer Access Policy

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Internet & Computer Lab Policy                                           

James Prendergast Library provides computers and Internet access in support of the library’s mission to provide services emphasizing general information and information literacy. The library’s Internet access is intended primarily as an informational and educational resource. As a recipient of federal funds through the government’s E-Rate program, James Prendergast Library’s computers are filtered in accordance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA). The library cannot guarantee that the filtering software will work 100% of the time nor that it will deny access to sites that parents may find objectionable. 

The Public Library does not serve in the role of a parent or guardian. Library staff cannot act in the place of parents in providing constant care and supervision of children as they explore the Internet. As with private usage of all other Library materials, monitoring a child’s access to the Internet is the responsibility of the parent or guardian.  Parents and children are encouraged to read information on Internet Safety published by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

Patrons using the computers are expected to follow all local, state, or federal ordinances, regulations, or laws.  Included in this list are the policies of James Prendergast Library and the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA), which bans the display, printing, sending, or dissemination of obscene or pornographic material.  Users engaged in illegal activities involving library computers may be subject to prosecution. 

The James Prendergast Library assumes no responsibility for any damages, direct or indirect, or loss of privacy, arising from use of its Internet workstations. The library is also not responsible for any loss or liability that may occur as a result of the disclosure of financial or other personal information over the library’s public computer services, including the Internet and electronic mail use.  Users should be aware that use of public computers is not a private or secure medium, and that third parties may be able to obtain information regarding the user’s activities.

1.) The Internet and computer workstations are available on a first come, first served basis and must be used within the confines of currently installed software and hardware.   

2.) For the adult computer lab, no more than one person at a computer terminal at a time. 

3.) In order to use the Internet workstations, all users must present their current James Prendergast Library card and agree to the James Prendergast Internet and Computer Access Policy.  If you do not have a library card, guest cards are available on a temporary basis. 

4.) Food and drink are not allowed in the computer lab.

5.) The Library staff has the authority to remove those who do not follow the laws/policies.  Violations of procedures may result in loss of any library privileges up to a permanent banning from the library.  Patrons will also be required to make restitution of any damages to any computer components, hardware, and/or software. 

6.) Staff may provide LIMITED assistance, as knowledge and time allow.  Staff take no responsibility in assisting patrons on any site. 

7.) Patrons are responsible for all items printed from the computer they use during their scheduled time.  

The library reserves the right to modify these policies at any time.

Approved by the James Prendergast Library Board of Trustees 6/17/2021; Reviewed 3/21/2024