CARVER PUBLIC LIBRARY
 Internet Access Policy and Guidelines

Internet Access Policy

The Carver Public Library welcomes the public to its Internet access. By providing access to the Internet, the library is making available a broader range of information than had been previously found in traditional library resources. Furthermore, the library, by offering this service, is acting as a neutral provider of information from all points of view. The Carver Public Library supports free and open access to the Internet for adults and believes that this is consistent with the Library Bill of Rights, the Freedom to Read, and the Freedom to View as stated by the American Library Association and sanctioned by the Carver Public Library.

Information found on the Internet is not organized centrally by any one agency or author. Librarians do not select or restrict the information on the Internet. The information may be current or dated, accurate or inaccurate, and sometimes completely unavailable. Some material accessed electronically on the Internet may not meet the standards set by the Carver Public Library Materials Selection Policy. In some cases, the information sought will be more readily found in a book, magazine, or a CD ROM product. A librarian will be glad to direct the patron to the best source for his or her inquiry.

Internet Policy for Children

The Internet has many benefits for children; however, it can also be a source of potentially harmful and inappropriate materials. In order to offer some safeguards for children, the Carver Public Library will provide filtered access to the Internet for children in the sixth grade and under. Those who are in seventh grade and older may access the unfiltered computers.

It is important to note that filters are not a perfect solution to this problem. Constant changes in web sites may limit the effectiveness of filters. Children are often adept at getting around filters. In addition, the filters may block useful and non-objectionable materials. Ultimately, it is the parents’ responsibility to monitor the Internet activities of their children. It is highly recommended that parents not only familiarize themselves with the scope of the Internet, but also accompany their children to the library to ensure proper usage of this service. Children accompanied by their parents may access the unfiltered Internet computers.

Staff Assistance

Librarians will help the patron get started in accessing the Internet, but cannot provide in-depth training. They may be able to offer searching tips and answer some questions, however, staff assistance may be limited to five minutes. 

Rules for Using the Internet

  1. The Internet is available to all Carver Public Library patrons.

  2. Only two people may use an Internet workstation at one time.

  3. Patrons will be allowed to use the Internet on a first-come-first-served basis for one-hour blocks.

  4. Patrons may only use the Internet at workstations designated for Internet use; the Internet workstations will not be used for word processing.

  5. Printing costs will be 10 cents per page, to be paid at the circulation desk.

  6. Users of the Internet should recognize that the information gained through the Internet is not confidential. Patrons are advised that using an Internet workstation is done at their own risk.

  7. Internet resources are for legal and legitimate uses only. Specific unacceptable uses are, but are not limited to:

Violation of the above rules may result in the cancellation of the individual’s computer privileges and may also be subject to prosecution by local, state and federal authorities.

Approved, Board of Library Trustees, October 14, 1999

Reprinted with permission of the Carver Public Library

To Internet Policy Index

To Massachusetts Regional Library Systems Policy Collection Index

Provided by the Massachusetts Regional Library Systems
Boston*Central*Metrowest*Northeastern*Southeastern*Western