Internet Usage Policy
The Clayton County Library System offers Internet access to more effectively meet the educational, information, and recreational needs of Library patrons. Use of the Internet for illegal purposes is expressly forbidden, in accordance with applicable legal statutes. The Library assumes responsibility only for the content of its own homepage and for accompanying Web pages.
Internet resources available through the Library are provided to all patrons, with the understanding that it is the individual patron’s responsibility to demonstrate judgment, respect for others, and appropriate conduct while using Library resources and facilities. Internet use is managed in a manner consistent with the Conduct in Libraries Policy posted in each Library facility. Complete Rules of Conduct for Use of Library Computers are available. These include time limits for daily use, so as to allow equitable use of this resource by all patrons.
While using the Internet at the Library, patrons may not display or print images unsuitable for a general audience. This includes, but is not limited to, material that is obscene as defined under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. 16-12-80), child pornography as defined under federal or state law (18 U.S.C. 2256; O.C.G.A. 16-12-100), and material that is “harmful to minors” as defined under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. 16-12-102. In compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act [Pub. L. No. 106-554 and 47 USC 254(h)], the Library employs a technology protection measure (filtering software) on all computers to block or filter access to inappropriate information. Subject to staff supervision, this technology protection measure may be disabled upon request only for bona fide research or other lawful purposes.
Patrons access the Internet at their own discretion. Although many valuable sources of information are available via the Internet, the Library can neither verify the accuracy nor control the content of material found. Although the Library uses a technology protection measure, patrons may find that some websites contain material they consider offensive, or inappropriate for children. While the Library makes every effort to comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act, the Library does not warrant the effectiveness of the filtering software used. Parents and/or guardians are strongly encouraged to monitor their minor children’s use of electronic resources, including electronic mail, and to establish guidelines consistent with personal and individual family values and boundaries.
Staff monitors use of Internet computers in an effort to prevent illegal or inappropriate activities, and takes appropriate actions if any user fails to comply with Library policies and procedures. To the extent practical, steps shall be taken to promote the safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, and other forms of direct electronic communications. Specifically, as required by the Neighborhood Children’s Internet Protection Act, prevention of inappropriate network usage includes: (a) unauthorized access, including so-called ‘hacking’, and other unlawful activities, and (b) unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors. Failure to follow the Library’s guidelines for Internet use will result in suspension or revocation of a patron’s right to use the Library and could result in criminal prosecution.
Library staff provides assistance to patrons using the Internet, within the limitations of available resources, and uses the Internet as appropriate to assist in answering reference questions. The Library maintains a list of recommended links that may be useful to patrons. The Library also offers books, videos, and other materials that may assist patrons in enhancing their knowledge of Internet skills and resources.
Adopted by the Clayton County Library Board of Trustees on April 12, 2005.
See also, Library Policy Regarding Children.
Wireless Policy
Adopted by the Clayton County Library Board of Trustees on April 12, 2005.
The Clayton County Library System (CCLS) provides filtered-only wireless access to the World Wide Web in our libraries. Any internet-enabled device may connect to our network. Please be aware that our wireless networks are not secure and do not require a password to connect. Wireless users should use caution when transmitting sensitive personal information and do so at their own risk. Patrons are responsible for providing their own anti-virus and security protection.
Restrictions
CCLS is not responsible for any loss of data, identity theft, or for theft or damage to personal equipment or software.
Internet resources available through the Library are provided to all patrons, with the understanding that it is the individual patron’s responsibility to demonstrate judgment, respect for others, and appropriate conduct while using Library resources and facilities. Internet use is managed in a manner consistent with the Conduct in Libraries Policy posted in each Library facility. Complete Rules of Conduct for Use of Library Computers are available. These include time limits for daily use, so as to allow equitable use of this resource by all patrons.
While using the Internet at the Library, patrons may not display or print images unsuitable for a general audience. This includes, but is not limited to, material that is obscene as defined under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. 16-12-80), child pornography as defined under federal or state law (18 U.S.C. 2256; O.C.G.A. 16-12-100), and material that is “harmful to minors” as defined under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. 16-12-102. In compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act [Pub. L. No. 106-554 and 47 USC 254(h)], the Library employs a technology protection measure (filtering software) on all computers to block or filter access to inappropriate information. Subject to staff supervision, this technology protection measure may be disabled upon request only for bona fide research or other lawful purposes.
Patrons access the Internet at their own discretion. Although many valuable sources of information are available via the Internet, the Library can neither verify the accuracy nor control the content of material found. Although the Library uses a technology protection measure, patrons may find that some websites contain material they consider offensive, or inappropriate for children. While the Library makes every effort to comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act, the Library does not warrant the effectiveness of the filtering software used. Parents and/or guardians are strongly encouraged to monitor their minor children’s use of electronic resources, including electronic mail, and to establish guidelines consistent with personal and individual family values and boundaries.
Staff monitors use of Internet computers in an effort to prevent illegal or inappropriate activities, and takes appropriate actions if any user fails to comply with Library policies and procedures. To the extent practical, steps shall be taken to promote the safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, and other forms of direct electronic communications. Specifically, as required by the Neighborhood Children’s Internet Protection Act, prevention of inappropriate network usage includes: (a) unauthorized access, including so-called ‘hacking’, and other unlawful activities, and (b) unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors. Failure to follow the Library’s guidelines for Internet use will result in suspension or revocation of a patron’s right to use the Library and could result in criminal prosecution.
Library staff provides assistance to patrons using the Internet, within the limitations of available resources, and uses the Internet as appropriate to assist in answering reference questions. The Library maintains a list of recommended links that may be useful to patrons. The Library also offers books, videos, and other materials that may assist patrons in enhancing their knowledge of Internet skills and resources.
Adopted by the Clayton County Library Board of Trustees on April 12, 2005.
See also, Library Policy Regarding Children.
Wireless Policy
Adopted by the Clayton County Library Board of Trustees on April 12, 2005.
The Clayton County Library System (CCLS) provides filtered-only wireless access to the World Wide Web in our libraries. Any internet-enabled device may connect to our network. Please be aware that our wireless networks are not secure and do not require a password to connect. Wireless users should use caution when transmitting sensitive personal information and do so at their own risk. Patrons are responsible for providing their own anti-virus and security protection.
Restrictions
- CCLS utilizes filtering technology on our wireless networks. Sites that are deemed harmful to minors or inappropriate in a public setting are not permitted. This includes but is not limited to sites that are pornographic or adult oriented, promote illegal drug use, hate speech, racism, violence and other illegal activities.
- CCLS expects users to respect the integrity of our network and not attempt to interfere with our operations or attempt to access files on another user’s computer. Doing so is a violation of CCLS policy.
- Additionally, access is restricted primarily to web browsing. In order to maintain the integrity of our network, CCLS uses firewall rules to block traffic from sites and applications that are known to use a high amount of bandwidth or present a security risk. This includes file sharing sites using BitTorrent and similar software.
- Another commonly blocked application is Microsoft Outlook. Since we are unable to verify that laptops connected to our networks are virus-free.
- Web-based email is allowed.
- Streaming of videos through a web browser is permitted but users should be aware that videos may load slowly or appear choppy. Our network is not configured to allow smart phone apps to access streaming video sites.
- Patrons are expected to comply with all library policies and rules while using our wireless networks. This includes refraining from loud, disruptive behavior and making inappropriate comments to staff or other patrons. Please see our policies for more information.
- Patrons attempting to circumvent any of the above may have their sessions terminated. Continued abuse may result in further action as deemed appropriate.
CCLS is not responsible for any loss of data, identity theft, or for theft or damage to personal equipment or software.