Background/Philosophy
Wright Memorial Public Library provides access to the Internet as an integral part of its mission. Internet is a worldwide computer network that provides access to a massive body of information. The resources available on the Internet expand the library's information resources well beyond traditional collections. In providing Internet access, Wright Memorial Public Library enhances its existing collection in size and depth.
Intellectual Freedom/Right to Privacy
Wright Memorial Public Library supports the First Amendment, intellectual freedom, and the Library Bill of Rights.
The same standards of intellectual freedom, privacy, and confidentiality endorsed by Wright Memorial Public Library for traditional resources and services also apply to electronic media, including the Internet. The library has a policy of open access to all parts of its collections, including access to the Internet.
The library seeks to protect the First Amendment rights of its patrons and their individual rights to privacy. However, Internet users must be sensitive to the fact that computers are in public areas and, therefore, images on the screen may be subject to view by a wide audience.
The computers owned and operated by the library are to be used for educational, informational, and recreational purposes only; they may not be used for unauthorized, illegal, or unethical purposes. Accessing, displaying, viewing, or disseminating materials and/or performances that are obscene or are harmful to juveniles, as these terms are defined in sections 2907.01 and 2907.31 of the Ohio Revised Code, are prohibited. Users may not use library computers or internet services for any activity that is reasonably construed as obscene, suggestive, or as creating an intimidating or hostile environment.
Conditions and Terms of Use for Library Computers
Patrons are required to sign up to use a Library computer. Visitors from outside Ohio may use a Library computer as a guest by consulting with a staff member. Use of the library's computers may be limited when other patrons are waiting. The library's Internet Use Policy applies to users of wireless connections and personal electronics accessed within the library.
The library reserves the right to charge for printing. The library is not responsible for damage to a patron's computer, storage device, or for any loss of data that may occur from the use of the library's computers.
The Internet offers access to information, ideas and commentary from around the world and a vast array of tools and resources for different age levels and points of view. However, not all sites on the Internet provide information that is accurate, complete, current, or legal. Wright Memorial Public Library does not endorse the viewpoints or vouch for the accuracy of information obtained through the Internet. The library has no control over the information accessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its content. Some resources contain material that some patrons may find personally offensive or may consider inappropriate for children.
Wright Memorial Public Library Internet users are advised not to enter any sensitive personal or financial information such as bank account passwords and credit card numbers into these public computers. Wright Memorial Public Library is in no way responsible for the results of such actions. The library (at its sole discretion) reserves the right to suspend or terminate the Internet privileges of any patron who violates the library's Internet Use policy.
Copyright
Materials obtained or copied on the Internet may be subject to laws that govern making reproductions of copyrighted works. Customers are responsible for compliance with all international, national and state laws governing copyrighted materials.
Find our complete, current Public Policy Manual.