Adopted by the Board on June 17, 1997

Revised by the Board on November 14, 2017

EASTERN OKLAHOMA LIBRARY SYSTEM

INTERNET POLICY

The mission of the Eastern Oklahoma Library System is to support lifelong learning.  To this end, the System is providing free access to the Internet at designated terminals in individual branches.  Wireless Internet access is provided at all locations as another means for accessing information.  This service is available 24/7.  All rules regarding Internet use within an EOLS facility must be followed. 

Although the Internet provides access to valuable sources of information, the System makes no guarantees regarding the accuracy or completeness of information found there.  There are sites on the Internet which may be considered controversial or inappropriate, the System cannot protect users from information that they may find offensive.  EOLS does not monitor and has no control over the information accessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its content.  The System does not restrict adult access or protect users from information that they may find offensive.  Patrons use the Internet at their own discretion.  As with most public wireless “hot spots,” the library’s wireless connection is not secure.  Any information being sent or received could potentially be intercepted by another user.  Cautious and informed wireless users should not transmit any personal information while using any wireless “hot spots.”

Internet access is filtered for all users.  Pursuant to the Supreme Court’s ruling,

“a librarian will unblock filtered material or disable the Internet software filter without significant delay on an adult user’s request”

Filtering software blocks access to a significant amount of constitutionally protected speech.  The disabling provision of the statute can be applied without significant delay to adult library patrons and without the need for the patron to provide a reason for the request to disable.

Parents and guardians of minor children, not the EOLS, are responsible for their children's use of the Internet through the library connection.  Parents may want to discuss Internet safety with their children.  Young people below age 18 will not be permitted to use library owned computers to access the Internet without parental permission, and parental guidance and assistance to young people using the Internet is strongly encouraged.  Patrons below age 18 will have their internet access filtered.  The library cannot and does not substitute for the parent in fulfilling this responsibility.

All users are expected to use the library’s network in a legal and responsible manner. 

• Illegal activities are prohibited.
• Activities intended to disrupt network services or equipment are prohibited.
• Materials copied on this computer network may be subject to copyright laws and may not be copied without permission of the copyright owner unless the proposed use falls within the definition of "Fair Use."

All people using library owned computers to access the Internet must sign the "Internet Users Agreement."

INTERNET USERS AGREEMENT

I recognize that use of the Internet through a branch of the Eastern Oklahoma Library System is a privilege.  I agree to abide by the following rules regulating use of the Internet, and understand that failure to observe them or failure to observe other library policies may result in a suspension of my use of the library's Internet access.

I further recognize that internet access at this library is filtered.  Filters may block constitutionally protected free speech.  As an adult, I have the right to request that the internet filter be turned off for the length of my session.  Turning off the filter is only available on library owned computers. 

1. I will not engage in any activity which:

1. seeks to gain unauthorized access to the resources of the library Internet database,
2. disrupts the intended use of the Internet,
3. wastes any resources through such activities,
4. violates, compromises, or destroys the integrity of any library computer based information,
5. compromises the privacy of any user,
6. is illegal.

            2.  I will not use this service for unlawful purposes.  I understand that transmission of any material in violation of any U.S. or state regulation is prohibited.  This includes, but is not limited to:  copyrighted material, threatening or obscene material, or any other protected material.

            3.  I agree to hold harmless the Eastern Oklahoma Library System for any and all claims of any nature arising from my use or inability to use the service.

            4.  Knowing that the Internet is currently an unregulated resource, I understand I use information obtained via this service at my own risk; that the library offers no guarantees as to accuracy or validity of information obtained through the Internet.

            5.  I will observe all copyright laws that might apply to files, software, or other resources downloaded from the Internet.

            6.  I will observe posted rules governing the use of the library's Internet hardware and software.

            7.  I will take proper care of all equipment, and will report any problem with the hardware or software immediately to the library staff.