Computer Lab FAQ

Library FAQs: Library FAQ Computer Lab FAQ Interlibrary Loan FAQ NetLibrary FAQ

What is the MRRL Internet Use Policy? What services are offered in the Computer Center? Who can use the PCC? What are the sign-up procedures? Can we make reservations? Can a group use one workstation? Can children use the PCC?

Are there age limits for Internet use? Are disks available? Can we print from the PCC workstations? What is the PCC's acceptable use policy? How can I contact the PCC?

What is the MRRL Internet Use Policy?

The Missouri River Regional Library reserves the right to monitor its patrons Internet use and may terminate Internet usage of any patron accessing pornographic or inappropriate material that creates a hostile environment for Library patrons or staff. The Library respects its patrons rights to privacy and to access of information; however, if you feel a hostile environment has been created, immediately contact a Library staff member. Violation of this policy may result in a loss of Internet privileges. Disciplinary procedures for violation of this policy are:

1. 1st Offense - The session will be terminated. The Patron is welcome to come back the following day.

2. 2nd Offense - Internet privileges will be suspended for one month.

3. 3rd Offense - Internet privileges will be permanently suspended. Patrons who have lost Internet privileges may still use other Public Computer Center (PCC) Resources.

4. Suspension Violation - If a patron violates their permanent Internet suspension, then all Public Computer Center privileges will be suspended for one month. (Patrons wishing to appeal or protest any Library policy or decision may do so by filling out the appropriate form available at any public desk.) This policy can also be found on the home page for our public computers.

What services are offered in the Computer Center?

Who can use the PCC?

Anyone with a Missouri River Regional Library (MRRL) card may use the PCC. Patrons with MRRL cards must present them to use the PCC. No other form of ID is acceptable. If you are not eligible to get a MRRL card, reciprocal card or fee-paid card, we do have guest passes available.

What are the sign-up procedures?

When you enter the PCC, put your name and the type of service you intend to use on the waiting list kept at the desk. Staff use this list to ensure that each patron is given a workstation in the order in which they arrived and to know what type of workstation is required.

Can we make reservations?

Reservations may be made on selected workstations up to 7 days in advance. If a patron has not shown up within 10 minutes of his start time, the reservation will be canceled.

Can a group use one workstation?

Because of its disruptive nature, group use of individual workstations is not permitted. Only one patron may sit at a workstation.

Can children use the PCC?

There are two computers specifically for children's use. These computers have a variety of entertainment and educational titles. The regular, Internet machines are also available for children who have their own library cards. These can be specially configured to allow access to all of our software, including the Magic Schoolbus game titles, without allowing any access to the Internet for children under the age of 12.

Are there age limits for Internet use?

Patrons aged 18 and over may use the Internet without restriction. Those 17 to 12 must have a parent or guardian present or the signature of that individual granting permission on their card application form. Patrons 11 and under must have a parent with them to use the PCC. The Library cards of those eligible will have Internet stickers. (Stickers are available at the Circulation desk and in the PCC.)

Are disks available?

Patrons may not save or download any file to the workstation hard drives. You are free to bring in your own disks for this purpose. The PCC desk will also have disks for sale. Floppy disks are $1.00 and Zip disks are $15.00.

Can we print from the PCC workstations?

The PCC has one color laser printer and all of the workstations are connected to it. Printout costs per page: $1.00/Color, 15¢/Black & White. Patrons are responsible for ALL printouts made.

What is the PCC's acceptable use policy?

The Public Computer Center provides computers that allow Library patrons access to a variety of networked electronic resources including personal productivity software, research databases, and access to the Internet.

To ensure fair and proper use of Library computing resources, patrons must follow the rules and policies set by MRRL staff. These policies are summarized here - please see the staff desk for the complete document. Failure to abide by these rules may result in loss of the Public Computer Center privileges. Computer resources may only be used for legal purposes that are in accord with the ethical standards of the Library. Examples of prohibited use include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Attempting to alter or damage computer equipment, software configurations, or files belonging to Missouri River Regional Library, other patrons, or external networks.
2. Transmission of speech not protected by the First Amendment.
3. Use of computer communications facilities in ways that tie-up, interfere with, or impede computer use of others
4. Violation of another user's privacy

How can I contact the PCC?

You can make reservations or speak with the person on duty by calling 573-634-6064 ext. 258. Our email address is mrrl@mrrl.org.