The Topsfield Town Library strives to develop the collection of books, resources and services that meet the community’s informational needs.  Access to the Internet is a resource and service that assists in the informational, cultural, and educational needs of the community.  Creating a sensitive and safe atmosphere for all individuals accessing information is very important to the Library environment.  Acknowledging that the Internet is a powerful information tool, it is not a total substitute for many other library resources.

            In accordance with the American Library Association’s “Library Bill of Rights,” public access to the Internet should be offered to all patrons.  It must be clear that the Topsfield Town Library staff does not monitor or control accessed information and cannot be held responsible for its content (with regard to accuracy, currency or completeness).

            The Internet may contain controversial material and information that is of a mature nature and may not be suitable for minors, nor appropriate for viewing in a public setting.  Therefore, prior to the use of the Internet, it is required that this “Policy for Public Use of the Internet” be read and signed by all patrons over eighteen years of age, or read and signed by a parent/legal guardian if the user is under eighteen. Only parents /guardians may restrict a minor’s Internet access.  The Library encourages parents/ guardians to discuss with their children the appropriate use of electronic resources available through the Internet.  The signed policy will be kept on file at the Library.  Individuals are requested to follow the Guidelines For Internet Use and to exercise good judgment and discretion in their use of the Internet while visiting the Library.

Guidelines for Internet Use

• Patrons must sign a “Policy for Public Use of the Internet” prior to using the Internet in this Library.  Patrons must check-in with a Library staff member each time before using the Internet.

• Reserve Internet time at the Reference Desk or the Children’s Room, in person or by calling 978-887-1528.  A patron arriving ten minutes beyond the scheduled time may forfeit the reserved time.

• The Library staff reserves the right to ask a Patron to discontinue use of the Internet if material being accessed is considered inappropriate for public viewing.

• Internet time may be limited to 30 minutes during busy periods if demand requires restrictions.  Preference will be given to children in grade 8 and under when accessing the Internet from the Children’s Room.  Adults that do not have good reason to access the Internet in the Children’s Room will be asked to access the Internet in the Reference Department.

• All printing from the Internet has a charge per page, to be paid once printing is completed.

• The Internet/PC Workstations close fifteen minutes before library closes.  All printing must be completed by this time.
• Only one patron is permitted at a workstation at a time, unless a staff member gives prior permission.  Interfering with or disrupting other computer users is prohibited.

• Patrons will not be permitted to use their own software.

• Downloading of files to this Library’s computers is not permitted.  Pre-formatted disks for saving files may be purchased at the desk and patrons are asked to observe all copyright regulations.   Disks brought into the Library must be scanned for viruses by the Library staff prior to use.

• The staff will assist in connecting you to the Internet, but cannot provide information on how to use Internet software.  Staff members may not always be available.

• The Internet computer equipment and software must be used as installed.  Users are not permitted to add to, delete or modify the installed software or hardware.

• Users will be held liable for repair or replacement costs for any damage to hardware or software.

• Patrons are expected to use the Internet in an ethical manner.  Violation of copyright laws, software license agreements, attempts to bypass network security functions, or alter library workstations in any way is not permitted.

• Users shall not use the Internet for any illegal activity; the use for purposes violating applicable federal, state or local laws is prohibited.

            The Topsfield Town Library reserves the right to terminate the Internet access privileges of any patron abusing any of the above Policy and Guidelines.  The Library also reserves the right to change this policy as necessary to regulate access or prevent misuse, given the size and evolving nature of the Internet.

The undersigned has read and agrees to comply with the Topsfield Town Library Policy for Public Use of the Internet dated April 9, 2003.

Name: ______________________________________________________________________________________

Address: _____________________________________________________________________________________

                        (Street Address)                                                                                     (Town)                (State)                (Zip Code)

Phone: ___________________________________

Date: ____________________________________

Signature_____________________________________________________________________________________

                                    (Parent/Guardian if under 18)

policy adopted April 9, 2003

Contact the library at: Phone: 1-978-887-1528 Fax: 1-978-887-0185 email: mto@mvlc.org