Internet Policy

The library uses an internet filter on all its computers. All computer users will be asked to provide ID or their library card before being seated at a public access computer.  

The Del Norte county Library is dedicated to ensuring that all members of the community have the right and means of open access to ideas and information which is fundamental to a democracy.  The Library affirms its traditional role in providing full access to use of its resources, regardless of format.

The Library’s Internet workstations are primarily to be used for research, educational and informational use.  Time limits may be enforced to ensure that all Library patrons have the opportunity to use the Internet resources.  The Library does not provide e-mail accounts.  Staff will not assist users in the use of e-mail, chat or other forms of personal communications or in the use of games.

Disclaimer:  The Internet changes daily.  Information is often not verifiable as accurate and patrons should be aware that errors, intentional misinformation and offensive material are sometimes posted on the Internet.  Some information may be objectionable to some patrons.  Patrons are advised to use critical thinking skills and exercise good judgment in accepting information found on the Internet.

The Library cannot be responsible for information gathered on the Internet.  The Internet is not controlled by any single authority.  The fact that the Library provides access to electronic information does not imply sponsorship or endorsement by the Library.  It is left to each user to choose what is individually appropriate and for parents to assume responsibility for their child’s use of the Internet through the Library’s connection.

The Library does not utilize Internet filters or otherwise censor the content available to users, except as required to maintain network security.  Each individual is responsible for his or her own use of the Internet.  All library computers are located in public areas where minors are present.  Internet users must be respectful of the rights of others to not be exposed to materials and images that they may find offensive or unsuitable.

User Responsibilities:  Internet users are expected to act in a responsible, ethical and legal manner.  Users may not utilize Library computers, wireless access or any other system or network resources for any illegal activities, including, but not limited to:

• Bypassing or attempting to bypass the security of the network or damaging or altering the physical or electronic configuration of computer equipment at the library including downloading or installing software. (California Penal Code, Section 502 et seq.)
• Accessing child pornography or other materials legally deemed obscene or harmful to minors. (California Penal Code, Sections 311-313 et seq.)
• Violating copyright laws or software license agreements.

Time Limits to Ensure Equitable Access:  In order to make limited computer resources available to as many people as possible, the Library designates time limits for computer use.  Because the Library supports recreational, educational and informational activities for users of all ages, each individual is entitled to the same amount of time to access computer resources, regardless of purpose, user age or any other factor.

Use of the Internet by Minors:  Minors are defined as persons under eighteen years of age who are not legally emancipated.  It is the responsibility of parents and guardians, not library staff, to decide which sites are suitable to be viewed by their children.  The Library encourages parents and guardians to accompany their children when they are accessing the internet and to provide clear guidelines for appropriate Internet use, including safety rules for sharing personal information or dealing with strangers online.

Privacy and Confidentiality:  The Del Norte County Library observes local, state and federal laws governing privacy of library records, including Internet usage.  While the Library places a high value on user confidentiality, the Library will cooperate with law enforcement requests for records under the provisions of the California Public Records Act. (California Government Code, Section 6267)

The Del Norte county Library has programs and processes in place that delete information entered by a user from the local computer at the end of each day.  Once a computer is turned off, it is not possible for the Library to retrieve any information.  Because the Library is a public place, users should be aware that information accessed on the Internet may be observed by other users.  

Portable Storage Devices:  Users may utilize USB drives or other storage devices, for saving or accessing documents.  Library computers will not allow software installations or executable program files to be run from the portable storage devices.  As a result, some USB drives may not work on Library computers.  The Library will not provide technical support for incompatible devices.

Printing:  While Internet access is available at no charge, the Library charges for printing on a per-page basis.

Wireless Access:  Wireless access is available at the Crescent City branch only.  Wireless users must comply with this and any other Del Norte County Library policy, whether they are using Library computers or their own personal equipment.  The Library does not charge for wireless access.

The Library assumes no responsibility for damage or loss of hardware, software or data resulting from use of the Library’s wireless service.  Wireless users should be aware of the security risks and potential signal loss inherent to wireless Internet access.