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Computer Use Policy

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Rules For Acceptable Use of the PCC

Introduction

This policy regulates non-Internet use of all computers in the Missouri River Regional Library Public Computer Center. It outlines the library's objectives for the public Computer Center and the responsibilities assumed by the patrons who use it. A similar policy, the Public computer Center Internet Use Policy, performs the same function for Internet use and may be read in of this document. By using the resources in the Public Computer Center, patrons agree to abide by both policies.

Objectives

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.

Missouri River Regional Library reserves the right to set rules as needed to promote equitable computer use and to revise this policy in response to changes in, or concerns about the library's computing environment.

Responsibilities

To ensure fair and proper use of library computing resources, patrons must follow the rules listed below. Failure to do so may result in loss of Public Computer Center privileges.

Computing resources may only be used for legal purposes. Examples of illegal use include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Attempting to alter or damage computer equipment, software configurations or files belonging to Missouri River Regional Library, other patrons or external networks.
  • Attempting unauthorized entry to Missouri River Regional Library's network or external networks.
  • Intentional propagation of computer viruses.
  • Violation of copyright or communications laws.
  • Violation of software license agreements.
  • Transmission of speech not protected by the First Amendment.

Computing resources must be used in accordance with the ethical standards of Missouri River Regional Library. Examples of unethical use (some of which may also have legal consequences) include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Violation of Public Computer Center Security.
  • Unauthorized use of computer accounts, access codes, or network identification numbers assigned to others.
  • Use of computer communications facilities in ways that tie-up, interfere with or impede computer use of others.
  • Violation of external network's regulations and policies.
  • Violation of another user's privacy.

Sanctions

Missouri River Regional Library relies on the cooperation of its patrons in order to efficiently and effectively provide shared resources and ensure community access to a wide range of information. If patrons break these acceptable use rules in any way, their right to use the public Computer Center may be suspended for a length of time or revoked altogether, depending on the severity of the situation. They will be notified of the length and reason for the suspension or revocation. Patrons who use the Public Computer Center for illegal purposes may also be subject to prosecution.

Disclaimers

Missouri River Regional Library assumes no liability for any loss or damage to patrons' data or disks, nor for any personal damage or injury incurred as a result of using the Public Computer Center.

Missouri River Regional Library cannot ensure the availability or the accuracy of external electronic resources. Like print materials, not all electronic resources provide accurate, complete or current information. The library will assist wherever possible in the use of electronic resources, but patrons must be good information consumers, questioning the validity of information.