Computer Use and Internet Policy

Lyme Public Library

Computer Use and Internet Policy

In order to comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) and to obtain certain federal funding, the Lyme Public Library will filter all library-owned computers and electronic devices that use the Library’s Internet service.

The filtering software will, to the extent practicable, (a) protect against access by staff and patrons, both minors and adults, to visual depictions that are obscene, child pornography, or harmful to minors as defined by federal law; (b) promote the safety and security of all Internet users, including minors, when using electronic mail, chat rooms and other forms of direct electronic communication; (c) guard against unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal information regarding all Internet users, including minors; and (d) prevent unauthorized online access to the computer networks of the Library and others, including so-called “hacking,” and any other unlawful activities by all Internet users, including minors.

Library users age 18 and over may request that a staff member disable the filtering software for bona fide research, or other lawful purposes.

The Lyme Public Library does not monitor and has no control over the information accessed on the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its contents.

Internet resources available at the library are provided equally to all library patrons.

Access is available to the World Wide Web only.  At this time, patrons may not send or receive an e-mail (except through web-based programs such as Gmail or Hotmail), use FTP, Telnet, enter chatrooms, join newsgroups, download files to the hard drive, or use their own software programs on the Internet. 

Parents or guardians, NOT THE LIBRARY, are responsible for supervising Internet information selected and/or accessed by their children.  Parents are strongly urged to advise their children of appropriate Internet sites.

Sexually explicit or pornographic material MAY NOT be accessed through the library’s Internet computers.  Accessing this material through the library computers will result in termination of Internet privileges.

If users choose to pay for services offered on the Internet, and they send their credit card information over the Web, they do so at their own risk.

The network may not be used to transmit threatening, obscene, and/or harassing material.  The copyright and licensing protection extended to materials accessed through the network will be respected.

Library staff cannot provide in-depth training on the Internet.  Staff can offer searching suggestions and assist patrons with basic instructions.

Patrons may not log on through any other Internet Service Provider.

Patrons may not alter the configuration of the computer’s settings or interfaces.

Misuse of the computer or Internet access may result in the loss of a patron’s  computer privileges.             

Periodic downtime may be necessary for maintenance, technical difficulties, or staff use.

If you have questions or concerns about the computer or the Internet access, please ask a library staff member.

The Library reserves the right to modify and change these policies or procedures at any time.

Approved 5/26/2021