Internet Use Guidelines & Procedures

Purpose:
The Library of Michigan provides access to a broad range of information resources, including those available through the Internet. Access to the Internet enables the Library of Michigan to greatly expand its information services beyond traditional collections and resources.

Disclaimer:
The Internet offers global access to information. However, not all sources on the Internet provide information that is accurate, complete or legal. The Library of Michigan is unable to monitor or control the content of Internet information (which changes rapidly and unpredictably). Internet users will need to evaluate for themselves the validity of information found. The availability of information via the Library's services does not constitute an endorsement of that information by the Library of Michigan. The Internet, even on the Library's filtered workstations, may contain information that is controversial, sexually explicit or offensive. Library patrons use the Internet at their own risk. Parents or guardians of minor children are responsible for their child's use of the Internet through the Library's connection.

Patrons under 18 years of age will be assigned to a filtered Internet workstation. Patrons under 18 years of age who wish to use unfiltered Internet workstations must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

User Responsibilities:
In order to use these resources, users must agree to the following conditions of use.

1. Respect the privacy of other users.
2. Patrons may not harass other Internet users in an effort to get them to abandon their workstation before their allotted time has expired.
3. Users shall not intentionally seek information on, obtain copies of, or modify files, other data or passwords belonging to other users.
4. Respect the legal protection provided by copyright and license to programs and data.
5. Respect the integrity of computing systems; for example, users shall not intentionally develop programs that harass other users, breach the security of a computer or computing system or damage or alter the software components of a computer or network.
6. The Library of Michigan does not permit the use of personal software, the attachment of equipment to the Library's computers or network or the modification of any operating system or network configuration.
7. The Library of Michigan does not permit anyone to destroy, alter, dismantle or disfigure any data, information technologies, properties or facilities.

To fulfill the Library's mission as a regional federal depository, the Library will provide one unfiltered Internet workstation dedicated to assist all patrons wishing to access federal government information. Patrons will not be required to show identification to use this workstation. The workstation also includes adaptive technologies to assist patrons with disabilities. Library staff will monitor this workstation to ensure that it is used for its intended purpose.

The Library's Internet workstations are intended for research activities. If it comes to the attention of the Library of Michigan that the Internet is being used inappropriately for illegal or criminal activity of any kind, the Library will cooperate with law enforcement officials in any manner authorized by state or federal statute.

Internet Use Procedures

1. All Internet users at the Library of Michigan must sign up for a workstation.
2. The Library of Michigan is a public building. Library users are expected to maintain a professional, business-like atmosphere conducive to research and study.
3. Before their first session on the Library's Internet workstation, users must read both the Internet Use Guidelines and Internet Use Procedures statements of the Library of Michigan.
4. Patrons must present a pictured ID, with birth date, and/or library card before they can use the Internet.
5. Patrons under 18 years of age will be assigned to a filtered Internet workstation.
6. The Library of Michigan's Internet workstations are available to users in 60-minute time blocks on a sign-up basis. Patrons may sign up for a maximum of two 60-minute sessions per day. If a patron has used a computer for 120 minutes or more in one day, that patron will not be permitted additional sign-ups. Additionally, if a patron exceeds a 60-minute session, and the computer is needed for another patron, that patron must wait one full hour before being granted a second sign-up. No more than two users can share an Internet terminal at any one time.
7. Library staff can assist users in getting started on the Internet and offer suggestions for effective searching. In-depth training in the use of the Internet or personal computers is unavailable.
8. Printers are available with many of the Internet workstations. Printing charges are 20 cents per page and the user must purchase a copy card to pay for printing. Downloading information from the Library of Michigan computer system is available based on software licensing and copyright agreements reached with information vendors and providers. Some information accessed on Library equipment may be downloaded to disc.
9. Internet users are responsible for the condition of the equipment while they are using it. Internet users are required to report all equipment problems to the reference staff.
10. The Library reserves the right to end an Internet session at any time.

Reviewed 06/07/2012