Accessing the Internet

The Marion Public Library does not limit patron access to specific content on the Internet.  Parents or guardians are responsible for the Internet information selected and/or accessed by their children.  The library affirms the right and responsibility of a parent or guardian to determine and monitor their child’s—and only their child’s—access to Internet resources accessible through the library.  Parents/guardians are advised to supervise their children’s Internet sessions.  The library asks that children under the age of nine (9) be accompanied by a parent or guardian when using the Internet.

Using the Internet

The Marion Public Library uses a computerized access management system for the library’s dedicated Internet computers.  Users must check in at the Information Desk using the PC Reservation computer.

The library also offers free wireless Internet access to patrons with wireless-enabled laptop computers or handheld devices.  Please note that the library will not assist with laptops, wireless network cards, or configurations.  The library does not accept the liability for your equipment.

Points to remember

• Patrons who wish to use web-based e-mail must register and maintain their own account without staff assistance.
• Users cannot download to the computer.  Information may be saved to a disk or USB flash drive.
• Information staff may grant permission for more than one person to use a computer at the same time.

Disclaimer

The library makes no guarantee, either expressed or implied, with respect to the availability, quality or content of the information available on the Internet.  Users are encouraged to evaluate the validity of information accessed.
    
Restrictions

The use of the Internet in the library must be for legal and ethical purposes.  Examples of unacceptable purposes include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Destruction of or damage to equipment, software or data belonging to the library;
• Violation of computer system security and/or system configuration;
• Violation of another user’s right to privacy;
• Use of sounds that are disturbing to others;
• Receiving or displaying text or graphics that may reasonably be construed as indecent or obscene and that might be harmful to minors.
• Iowa Code, Chapter 728.2, “Dissemination and exhibition of obscene materials to minors” states: “Any person, other than the parent or guardian of the minor who knowingly disseminates or exhibits obscene materials to a minor, including the exhibition of obscene material so that it can be observed by a minor on or off the premises where it is displayed, is guilty of a public offense and shall upon conviction be guilty of a serious misdemeanor.”

Collection of Information on Use of Library Computers (PCs)

Information is collected on usage of public computers in the Marion Public Library.  The library’s PC Reservation System retains information on the patron barcode, computer reserved and the date and time of every public computer session.  These records are accessible to law enforcement agencies with a valid court order.

Violations

Violations of the Internet Policy will result in permanent loss of computer privileges and may lead to financial responsibility.  Illegal acts involving library computers may also be subject to prosecution by local, state or federal authorities.

Printing

All printing is $.10 a page.  Go to the Information Desk to have staff print job(s).  Payment is due at this time.  The library reserves the right for staff to view printed pages.

Staff Assistance

Internet users are expected to be knowledgeable in basic computer operations.

If time permits, library staff may assist users in getting started on the Internet and offer suggestions for effective searching.  The library’s home page has links to sites that may help in Internet searching.

Availability

Internet computers may be unavailable due to library use or unforeseen problems.