Internet Use Policy

Davenport Public Library Computer and Internet Use Policy

I. Scope

1.    It is the purpose of Davenport Public Library (DPL) to serve the information needs of library users through applicable and meaningful formats. With advances of technology and the changing needs of the community, DPL will provide free access to library material, electronic databases, Internet and Internet Resources to DPL users. 

2.    The Internet, as a global system of interconnected information, is a valuable resource open to diverse populations of all backgrounds and ages. The Internet allows Davenport Public Library to provide information and other resources not available within DPL’s physical collection, therefore enhancing current services available to DPL users.

 

Likewise, DPL acknowledges that the Internet is an unregulated resource that can connect users to material that may be inaccurate, incomplete, offensive, disturbing, and/or illegal. It is the DPL’s policy to comply with the requirements of the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) and the related June 23, 2003 United States Supreme Court decision.[i] The technology protections employed by DPL may not be fully effective in blocking intended material and may inadvertently block unintended material; and therefore, cannot guarantee the effectiveness of employed technology protections.

 

2. Policy

  1. Internet access at Open Public Access Computer (OPAC) workstations is provided equally to all library users.
  2. DPL upholds and affirms the right of individuals to have access to constitutionally protected materials. DPL also affirms the right and responsibility of parents or guardians to guide, determine, and monitor their children’s use of the Internet. All patrons will be offered filtered access. If an adult patron (17 years of age or older) wishes to opt out of filtering, he/she may request this from DPL Librarian and must provide proof of age through official sources (State Identification, etc.).
  3. All DPL users will access the Internet in compliance with the Library’s Rules of Conduct, and within the boundaries of the law. Viewing illegal materials (obscenity, child pornography or materials harmful to minors) is prohibited.  Library Users should not attempt to change, damage, “hack” or “fix” Open Public Computer Workstations. Violations may result in the loss of Internet privileges. Using the computer workstation constitutes an agreement by the user to these terms.
  4. DPL users are requested to exercise appropriate discretion in viewing materials. DPL does not guarantee privacy for individuals using library OPACs to search the Internet and computer screens may be visible to people of all ages and backgrounds.
  5. DPL and DPL library users will follow all City, State, and Federal regulations applicable to use of OPAC Internet workstations and follow the Davenport Public Library’s Rules of Conduct.

3. Implementation

  1. DPL employs filtering software on all of the Open Public Access Computers, Staff Workstations, and Wireless Internet. Frequently Asked Questions can be viewed on the software company’s website.
  2. To facilitate implementation of the Internet Use Policy, DPL will prepare responses to Internet Frequently Asked Questions and will be responsible for establishing procedures to carry out the Internet Use Policy.
  3. Copies of the Internet Use Policy, and other relevant documents, will be available to the Davenport Public Library Users in print format and electronically via DPL’s website.

Adopted by the Davenport Public Library Board of Trustees.

 



[i] The Children’s Internet Protection Act provides United States Code citations for the definitions of “obscene” (18 U.S.C. § 1460) and “child pornography” (18 U.S.C. § 2256). The Act itself defines “harmful to minors” in Section 1703 (b)(2).

 

IMLS Logo
WSL-SOS Logo
Made possible with funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services through the Washington State Library, Office of the Secretary of State.