Internet/Wireless Policy

Purpose

The Minocqua Public Library provides access to a broad range of information resources, including those available through the Internet. It is within this context that the Library offers access to the Internet, both through public computers and free public Wi-Fi.

Responsibilities of Users

• The Minocqua Public Library does not monitor and has no control over information accessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its content.
• Parents/guardians (not the Library or staff) are responsible for the Internet information selected and/or accessed by their children.

Internet Users

Adults

Internet resources available in the library are provided to all adult patrons except those whose prior Internet use has resulted in revocation of privileges.

Children

Minors under 18 must have signed permission from a parent or guardian to use the Internet. The parent/guardian must show identification and sign the permission form in the presence of a staff member.

Users under 18 temporarily residing at area camps may use the Internet provided the camp director agrees to complete signed permission forms accepting responsibility for each minor in lieu of a parent or guardian.

Illegal and Unacceptable Uses

The library computers may only be used for legal purposes. Examples include (but are not limited to):

• Sending, receiving, or displaying text/graphics reasonably construed as offensive to the public
• Harassment of other users or violation of privacy
• Libeling, slandering, or maliciously offending other users
• Violation of copyright laws or licensing agreements
• Attempting to crash systems, degrade performance, or gain unauthorized access
• Damaging equipment, software, or data
• Obstructing others’ work by overuse of system resources

The authority to determine what is illegal rests with the courts as defined in Wisconsin and federal statutes, including Wisconsin Statute s. 944.21 and Wisconsin Statute s. 948.11.

Violations may result in loss of Internet and/or library privileges. Illegal use may also be subject to prosecution.

Copyright

U.S. Copyright law (Title 17, U.S. Code) prohibits unauthorized reproduction or distribution of copyrighted materials, except as permitted by fair use. Users may not copy or distribute electronic materials without explicit permission.

Responsibility for consequences of copyright infringement lies with the user; the Library disclaims liability resulting from such use.

Scheduling and Use of Internet Computers

• Access is first-come, first-served. Reservations for special circumstances may be accepted at staff discretion.
• Computers are scheduled in 30-minute sessions which may be reserved in person on the day of use. Users must sign in by name for each session. Staff may limit sessions.
• Staff may offer basic searching suggestions, but an experienced Internet-trained staff member may not always be available. Staff will not enter personal information for patrons.
• Users should refrain from sounds/visuals that disrupt others.
• Printing charges are determined by staff and posted.

Wireless Internet Access

Wireless access is provided through Badgernet. Staff cannot guarantee that individuals will be able to connect.

Wireless access is unfiltered. By using this free service, patrons accept and must follow the Internet Acceptable Use policy. The Library may end a wireless session if use creates an atmosphere inappropriate for a public library setting.

Wireless is not secure. Virus, security, and privacy protection are the responsibility of the user. Patrons must protect their information.

Wireless access is always available. Wireless users may not access library printers.