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Guidelines for Library Internet Access
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The Guelph Public Library has established public access to the Internet as part of
its mission to “act as a gateway into the information networks of the
world”.
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| While
the Internet provides a variety of resources for people of different age levels
and with varying points of view, the Guelph Public Library Internet service is
intended for educational, recreational, and informational uses.
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| The
Guelph Public Library strives to balance the rights of users to access a wide
range of information resources with the rights of users to work in a public
environment free from harassing sounds and visuals. We ask users to remain
sensitive to the fact that you are working in a public area shared by people of
all ages, with a variety of information interests and needs. The display of
images or sounds deemed disturbing or disruptive will not be permitted. Some
filtered workstations will be available to interested users. Please note that no
filtering product can block all offensive sites. The Guelph Public Library
assumes no liability in the event that the filter is not 100% effective. The
Library assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of the filter or the content
provided through it.
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Internet
users will be required to read and acknowledge an on-screen waiver outlining
rules for acceptable use. Non-resident users must sign an acceptable use
agreement in order to get temporary access. Non-resident users may use this service
for up to one month before they must obtain a permanent library card.
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| Caveats/Disclaimers |
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| The
Guelph Public Library cannot guarantee and is not responsible for the accuracy
of information obtained via the Internet. The accuracy of the information is the
responsibility of each originator or producer.
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| The
Guelph Public Library will not be held responsible for any charges incurred by
users of the Internet.
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| Parents
or guardians should be aware that some information on the Internet is of a
mature nature and may not be suitable for children. Parents or guardians are
responsible for information selected and accessed by children. The best way to
ensure that children are having a positive online experience is to stay in touch
with what they are doing. Parents concerned about their children’s use of the
Internet are ultimately responsible for setting standards and establishing
guidelines. While software filtering can reduce access to some offensive and
disturbing sites, it is not possible for library staff to completely control the
flow of information that may be inappropriate for children. For more information please
visit www.media-awareness.ca.
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| Library
staff will assist users only as their time permits.
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| Users
will not be permitted to download information to a diskette at this time. This
policy is subject to review and may change when additional library resources
become available. Printing will be allowed at a cost of $.20/page.
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Misuse
of the computer, including any violation of the code of ethics, will result in
the loss of access to this resource, and may result in the revocation of all
library privileges and prosecution by the appropriate authorities.
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| Rules
For Use |
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All users must adhere to the following
rules to ensure fair accessibility for all.
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The user must present a valid Guelph Public Library card at each session.
Children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult during the full
session.
- Transient, non-library patrons will be required to register for an
Internet Library card and must show appropriate identification. They must sign a
User agreement which will be kept on file for up to one year.
- Internet users may use their library card only (or one provided by
library staff), and this card will permit a maximum of 45 minutes of Internet
use daily.
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The on-screen ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY must be acknowledged by everyone using
the computer.
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Use of personal software programs is not permitted. Users may not
download data from the Internet at this time.
- Printing is available at a rate of $.20 per page.
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Whenever time and knowledge permit, staff will assist users.
- Misuse of the computer, including any violation of the code of ethics,
will result in the loss of access to this resource, and may result in the
revocation of all library privileges as well as prosecution by the appropriate
authorities.
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| Guelph
Public Library – Code of Ethics |
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| Users
of electronic information sources such as the Internet are expected to use these
resources in a responsible manner, consistent with the educational, and
informational purposes for which they are provided and to follow the rules and
regulations of the library providing these resources.
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Responsible,
ethical use of the Internet includes:
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Using the Internet for educational, informational and recreational
purposes only; not for unauthorized, illegal, or unethical purposes.
- Not attempting to modify or gain access to files, passwords, or data
belonging to others; not seeking unauthorized access to any computer system or
damaging or altering software components of any network database.
- Not sending, receiving, displaying text/graphics which are illegal or may
reasonably be construed as obscene or offensive.
- Acknowledging the ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY, and agreeing to abide by the
rules for use as outlined.
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Acceptable Use Policy