Internet and Computers At the Library
The library has over forty computers that may be used by the public for Internet access. Many of the computers also have Microsoft Office Suite (including Word, Excel and Access) and several reference databases such as Encarta Africana, Encarta Encyclopedia, Encarta World Atlas, and Microsoft Streets & Trips. The computers in the Children's Department have several additional educational and entertaining programs.
A valid library card or a proper form of ID is required to use the public access computers. Patrons must also read the library's Internet Acceptable Use Policy. A copy of the policy follows:
Cambria County Library Public Access To The Internet
Acceptable Use Policy StatementPURPOSE
Cambria County Library is committed to the promotion of lifelong learning. As part of that commitment, the Library will provide free public access to the diverse and unique resources available on the Internet. In accordance with the library's selection policy, the Internet may not be used for accessing material that is not in the realm of information normally provided by the library.
GENERAL INFORMATION
1. Information available through the Internet may be protected by copyrights or trademarks. Transmission of copyrighted or pornographic material in violation of any federal or state regulation is prohibited.
2. Patrons should be aware that the Internet contains offensive material. Although library computers utilize filtering software, the library does not warrant the effectiveness of Internet filtering.
3. The Internet is a vast worldwide community with no limitations or restrictions. Not all sources on the Internet provide accurate, complete, or current information. The Cambria County Library is not responsible for any information obtained on the Internet. Use is at the patron's risk.
4. Since the library is a public forum, privacy while using the Internet cannot be provided. Users are also cautioned that all transactions and communication in an electronic environment are vulnerable to unauthorized access.
5. Revealing personal information in open forums such as chat rooms and e-mail can be dangerous. Do not reveal information about yourself or others in these open forums.
6. Parents and guardians may restrict their children from access to Internet resources available through the library.
7. The library provides wireless Internet access on a limited support basis. For further information please see the "Public Wireless Access to the Internet Acceptable Use Policy."PATRON RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Users must have a current Cambria County Library card. Pennsylvania residents living outside of Cambria County Library's direct service area may use a valid library card from a Pennsylvania library along with a proper form of ID. Other visitors may use a proper form of ID, on a temporary basis. Users under the age of 18 must have parent/guardian approval to use the Internet, which will require an in-person visit by the parent/guardian. Approval will be indicated on the library card.
2. Sign out computers at the public service desks. The library has the right to assign computers and impose time limits. Patrons may not change workstations unless a problem arises with the computer. Please notify the staff if the computer is not working properly.
3. Users, or the person signing for the user, must read the library's Internet Acceptable Use Policy.
4. It is a felony offense in the state of Pennsylvania "to display or cause to display any explicit sexual material...on any...viewing screen in such manner that the display is visible...in any establishment where minors, as part of the general public, may be exposed to view all or any part of such materials." Title 18 Penna. Crime Code - Sect. 5903) Therefore, viewing of such material in the Library will not be permitted. Violation of this provision may result in the immediate termination of Internet privileges.
5. Any malicious attempt to harm or destroy data is prohibited. This includes the uploading or creating of computer viruses. Hardware and software may not be modified or destroyed. Users may not turn equipment on or off or change settings.
6. Installing personal or downloaded programs is prohibited.
7. Saving files to the hard drive is prohibited. Saving to, or accessing files from, removable media or personal devices is permitted. Users may use flash drives at their own risk. The library cannot offer technical support when problems occur with such devices.
8. Patrons may not use the Internet at the Library for any commercial or for-profit purposes.
9. Be polite. Use appropriate language online. Do not use the network in a way that disrupts the use of the network by others. This includes but is not limited to downloading large files and streaming audio or video.
10. Black and white printouts are $.20 per page plus tax. Color printouts are $.30 per page plus tax. Please pay at the Reference, Information, or Circulation Desks.
11. Internet searches must be completed 10 minutes before the library closes.USE OF THE INTERNET BY CHILDREN
1. Access to the Internet is offered in the Children's Room for children through sixth grade. Children under the age of 10 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian when using the Internet. The library will offer Internet access to patrons 7th grade and up in the Adult Department.
2. Time limits may be imposed during busy periods.
3. Parents or guardians, not the Library or its staff, are responsible for the Internet information selected and/or accessed by their children. Parents or guardians may restrict their children from access to Internet resources available through the library. Parents or guardians are advised to supervise their children's Internet sessions.LIMITATIONS
1. Personal e-mail accounts are available through websites such as Hotmail, Yahoo, etc.
2. Library staff are available for a limited amount of assistance in using the Internet, but they cannot spend large amounts of time guiding patrons through the Internet. Staff cannot provide in-depth training concerning Internet computer jargon or personal computer use, but may be able to offer searching suggestions.
3. No more than two people may use an Internet workstation at one time. The patron who signed out the computer is responsible for operating it.
4. Gambling and instant messaging sites are blocked. Some games sites are blocked.
5. Use of the Internet at the Library is a privilege, not a right. Any violation of the Library's Internet policy may result in loss of library privileges and appropriate legal action may be taken.
6. Due to the ever-changing nature of these services, this policy is subject to change without notice at the library's discretion.
Policy approved by the Cambria Library Association Board of Directors on March 8, 2006.
Appendix
The Childrens Internet Protection Act (CIPA) requires public libraries to address several issues in the Internet Acceptable Use Policy. The Cambria County Library addresses these issues as such:
- Access by minors to inappropriate matter on the Internet and World Wide Web
Refer to "General Information" #2 and "Patron Responsibilities" #4
- The safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms, and other forms of direct electronic communications
Refer to "General Information" #4 and #5
- Unauthorized access, including so-called 'hacking', and other unlawful activities by minors online
Refer to "Patron Responsibilities" #5
- Unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors
Refer to "General Information" #5
- Measures designed to restrict minors' access to materials harmful to minors
Refer to "General Information" #2 and "Patron Responsibilities" #4
