Mission:

As part of our goal to meet the informational and educational needs of our patrons and to supplement our reference service access is provided to the World Wide Web. 

Since Internet is a global electronic network, there is no local, state, or federal control over its users or contents. The Internet may contain inaccurate materials or materials of a controversial nature. WPL doesn't take responsibility for the content and format of information retrieved on the worldwide web. 

Access and Restrictions:

Internet stations are available on first-come, first-served basis and we are not taking reservation.  A walk-in station is available for short sessions such as checking e-mails, etc.  A library card is required for using public Internet stations.
In order for the library to be in compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act and with section 42 (1-36.1) of the Code of Virginia, the following regulations, provisions, and recommendations are provided for Library Internet use:

1. All Internet accessible computers are filtered and may be used by patrons of any age. The filtering service limits the amount of pornographic or obscene materials available on the Internet, but users should be aware that no filtering is completely effective.
2. Adult patrons (18 years and older) may request from Library staff unfiltered access to the Internet without explanation.
3. The following activities are strictly prohibited:

• Violation of any applicable federal, state, or local laws, ordinances, rules or regulations
• Harassment of other persons or parties
• Destruction of or damage to equipment, software, or date belonging to the library or other users
• Unauthorized copying of copyright or other protected materials
• Violation of computer security or privacy
• Violation of software license agreements
• Users may not attempt to change or modify hardware or software configurations or install software on the Library’s workstations                                   

Printing:

Patrons may print information from the Internet workstations at the cost of 15 cents per page (black & White).   Printing large files uses up computer and printer resources. If you must print a large file, please ask a staff member for help.

Staff Assistance:

Because of limited staff resources, WPL will not always be able to provide intensive assistance to Internet users. At busy times, staff will only be able to assist a patron with getting started, and then if possible will return later to check on progress. Library users are advised to attend the periodic WPL Public Internet Workshops for more detailed training on Internet resources. Patrons are also encouraged to consult computer tutorials and the Library’s online public access catalog to find reference and circulating materials on how to use the Internet.
            
Time Restriction:

Access to the Internet is limited to one hour per session and will be enforced when other patrons are waiting.

Age Restriction:

Children 13 years old and younger are restricted to use Internet stations in the juvenile side of the library.

Users who violate this policy will be warned the first time. A second violation will result in being banned from using the Library workstations for 4 weeks. A user may be permanently banned at the Library Director’s discretion for serious or repeated offenses, and law enforcement authorities may be called.  

This Internet Access Policy is subject to revision at any time. All users must abide by current policy in place.
Adopted by the WPL Library Board of Trustees: 

 

Revised on:     August 21, 2005