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Maine State Library Computer Use and Internet Safety Policy

Introduction

It is the policy of the Maine State Library (MSL) to: (a) prevent user access over its computer network to, or transmission of, inappropriate material via Internet, electronic mail, or other forms of direct electronic communications; (b) prevent unauthorized access and other unlawful online activity; (c) prevent unauthorized online disclosure, use, or dissemination of personal identification information of minors; and (d) comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act [Pub. L. No. 106-554 and 47 USC 254(h)].

As with other library resources, the use of the library’s computer or Internet resources by a minor are the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian.

Use of the MSL computers or Internet connection is considered de facto acceptance of these policies.

Computer Use

No sign-in required to use the public computers; simply help yourself to any available station.
Abide by 1-hour time limit.
Pay for all printed copies (10 cents/page for black and white prints, 25 cents/page for color prints).
Do not change settings, wallpaper, etc.; do not save/download; do not install hardware/software.
Do not shut down computers; click the Home icon when finished.
Patrons may save to their own memory sticks (the Library is not responsible for loss or damage).
The user is responsible for any damage resulting from connection of users' personal computer equipment or peripherals to MSL computers.
Privacy cannot be guaranteed; all computers are in public areas and must be used as such.
Any copyright law infringement by the patron is solely his/her responsibility.

Internet Safety

Access to Inappropriate Material

To the extent practical, technology protection measures (or “Internet filters”) shall be used to block or filter Internet, or other forms of electronic communications, access to inappropriate information.

Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act, blocking shall be applied to visual depictions of material deemed obscene or child pornography, or to any material deemed harmful to minors.

Upon request and subject to staff supervision, technology protection measures may be disabled for adults or, in the case of minors, minimized only for bona fide research or other lawful purposes.

Inappropriate Network Usage

To the extent practical, steps shall be taken to promote the safety and security of users of the Maine State Library online computer network when using electronic mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, and other forms of direct electronic communications.

Specifically, as required by the 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 abide by the provisions of this policy will result in the loss of library privileges including, but not limited to, use of the Library computers. Illegal acts involving the public computers or Internet connection will be subject to prosecution by local, state and federal authorities.

Education, Supervision and Monitoring

Members of the MSL staff endeavor to educate, supervise and monitor appropriate usage of the online computer network and access to the Internet to insure in accordance with this policy, the Children’s Internet Protection Act, the Neighborhood Children’s Internet Protection Act, and the Protecting Children in the 21st Century Act. Procedures for the disabling or otherwise modifying any technology protection measures shall be the responsibility of the Circulation Manager or designated representatives.