Rules for Use of Computers, Tablets, and Internet (WiFi)
All persons who wish to use a public computer must have a library card or check in with a staff member. All computers operate on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Reference Department (2nd Floor)
- Users in the ninth grade or older will have access in the Reference Department.
- Adults in the company of children under the age of seven must use the computers in the Children’s Room.
Children’s Room (1st Floor)
- Users in the eighth grade or younger must use the Children’s Room stations unless accompanied by an adult. Children are offered a total of two, one-hour sessions on the computer per day. When others are waiting, a child may have a single one-hour session and then place themselves on the waiting list for their second one-hour session. Library staff are not responsible for and do not monitor children’s computer use.
- Users under the age of seven (7) must have their adult’s permission to use the computer.
- Adults in the company of children in the eighth grade or under may use the Children’s Room stations. Adults using the computers are offered a single one-hour session. While using the computer, adults must be able to actively watch their children at all times. Computer stations A-D are available for adult use.
- iPads in the children’s room are for use by youth in grades 1-8 only. Users must mute the volume or use headphones when using the iPad. Sessions on iPads are limited to thirty minutes per person.
General Rules of Use
- No food/drink next to library computers.
- Library staff will assist users with basic computer use and troubleshooting. Staff cannot guarantee lengthy or detailed computer instruction.
- Computer users are reminded that computer tasks may be time-consuming. Users are responsible for monitoring their allotted time by using the timer in the lower right-hand corner of the computer screen. Computers automatically shut down 10 minutes prior to library closing time. Documents left open when time expires will likely not be able to be recovered.
- The library cannot guarantee privacy while using public computers, printer, or Wi-Fi. Please use your best judgement when accessing or printing secure materials. Patrons are responsible for logging out of their personal accounts (email, etc.) and deleting their personal files from the computer.
- The library’s Patron Conduct Policy states that “The Library is a family-friendly institution that seeks ways to develop a safe environment for all of our patrons. Physical or verbal harassment will not be tolerated on our premises. This includes the intentional displaying of pornographic materials on Library property. It is our policy not to determine the extent of such activity, but to allow the appropriate authorities to deal with such behavior.” Those who violate this policy will lose computer privileges.
- Misuse of the computer will result in the loss of computer privileges, potential loss of library privileges, and possible prosecution. Such misuse includes, but is not limited to:
– using the computer for illegal activities;
– hacking in to the library computer system or any other computer system;
– damaging or attempting to damage computer equipment or software;
– interfering with systems operations, integrity, or security;
– gaining unauthorized access to another person’s files;
– sending harassing messages to other computer users;
– altering or attempting to alter the library’s computer settings; and
– violating copyright laws and software licensing agreements.
These rules will be posted in each service area in which Internet access is provided.
By signing in to use the computers and clicking “Continue,” users agree to the above terms.
(Approved and updated September 2023 by APL Board of Trustees)
