Library Board Policy
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Hennepin County Library Board Policy |
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Policy History: Next Review Date: 04/2016 |
Purpose The purpose of this policy is to affirm the library's role in providing public access to the Internet and to clarify patron responsibilities associated with Internet use in the library. Internet use in the library means using the library's network to access the Internet either on library workstations or through a wireless connection. Principles Public access to the Internet is integral to Hennepin County Library's mission to nourish minds, transform lives, and build community together. Public access to the Internet allows patrons to:
Hennepin County Library provides public access to the Internet in accordance with state and federal laws and the policies of Hennepin County and the Hennepin County Library Board. Scope of Access Public access to the Internet is available at all library locations via library workstations and wireless access. Filtering software is used to filter out proxy sites, pornographic sites, and sites that pose a security risk to the network. As provided by law, patrons age 17 and older may request that the content filter be disabled on library workstations in order to access constitutionally protected content. Library workstations support a variety of software programs that expand a workstation's capabilities and increase a patron's ability to utilize the Internet The library may establish time limitations to ensure fair and equitable access to library workstations. The Hennepin County Library Board, Hennepin County, and its employees assume no responsibility for damages of any type arising from patron use of the Internet through the library's network. Patron Responsibilities: Patrons acknowledge that the content on the Internet is not managed or governed by any entity and therefore they may encounter materials that are inaccurate or that they consider offensive. Patrons recognize that their use of the Internet is conducted in a public place shared by many. Patrons are subject to the Customer Use of Libraries Policy. Patrons acknowledge that the library cannot protect the privacy of data that is transmitted to third parties via the Internet. Patrons shall comply with all federal, state, and local laws including but not limited to:
Failure to follow this policy may result in eviction from the library, and may include a trespass order or arrest. Violation of state and federal laws will be referred to the proper authorities for legal action. Parent and Guardian Responsibility Parents and guardians are responsible for monitoring Internet access for their children who are minors. Any restriction placed on a child's access to the Internet on the library's network is the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian. Associated Policies and Laws
Process This policy is reviewed by the Library Director (or designee), the library's legal counsel and the Library Board Program/Policy Committee at least every four years. The Committee reviews and revises as necessary, endorses and advances to the full Library Board for approval. LB12 |
