Manatee County Public Library Internet Use Policy and Procedures
The Manatee County Public Library System provides public access to computers with Microsoft Office and the Internet as part of its mission to deliver services and resources to meet the information needs of its users. Access is made available equally to all users. There are no age restrictions for use of the library workstations, though children 11 and under should be accompanied by someone 16 and older. Users requiring ADA accommodations should request assistance at any staff desk.
Manatee County upholds and affirms the right of each individual to have access to constitutionally protected materials. Manatee County also affirms the right and responsibility of parents and legal guardians to determine and monitor their children’s use of the Internet as well as library resources and materials.
Manatee County disclaims any warranty as to the quality or accuracy of electronic information via the Internet. Manatee County assumes no responsibility for any damages, direct or indirect, arising from the connection to or use of the Internet because public computers are neither private nor secure. Every effort is made to provide consistent reliable service, however the Library cannot be held responsible for loss or corruption of data. Use of the internet is at your own risk.
WiFi: Every location provides limited wireless access. There is no password and the signal is called "Manatee County Public". Use of the wireless internet is at your own risk.
Printing: the printing fee is 10 cents per page for B&W; 50 cents per page for color. Remote printing is available.
Computer users are expected to have a basic understanding of computer use and Internet searching. Staff are available for limited assistance only as time allows. User may make suggestions with regard to adding/deleting access to specific sites on the Internet. The Library may reserve workstations for use by tutors, special programs, or classes.
Guidelines for Use
- Personal use of computers is on a first come, first serve basis.
- Due to safety protocols and limited number of computers, the daily limit of computer use is 4 hours per patron.
- Workstations are designed for a single user, and no more than two users per computer.
- Users select their own printing and should do a “print preview” before sending a request for printing. A fee is charged per page printed.
- Users must comply with the library’s posted Behavior Policy. Computer use is a privilege and users may not behave in a disruptive manner, which includes introducing any offensive noise (such as loud talking, singing, or cell phone use) or odors, abusing staff, or leaving children unattended. Failure to appropriately consider the rights of others may lead to the loss of those computer privileges.
- Library workstations are in public areas, therefore the Library asks that each user exercise good judgment and consideration of others. Users may be asked to end a search or change a screen if they are viewing subject matter that would interfere with the maintenance of a safe, welcoming, and comfortable environment. Computer privileges will be revoked for anyone persisting in viewing material considered too graphic (sexual, pornographic , controversial, disturbing, or obscene) for public use.
- Print jobs may not exceed 50 pages or $5.00 as the coin box will not accept a higher dollar amount.
- Computers will automatically log off five minutes prior to the close of library business daily.
- Drinks should not be placed anywhere they can damage computers.
Violations
- Tampering or reconfiguring of computer equipment is prohibited.
- Overriding the sign up system is prohibited.
- No software or hardware may be installed, altered, added or implemented.
- Illegal activities, copyright and licensing violations, hacking, and privacy violations will be subject to prosecution by the appropriate law enforcement authorities.
- The library reserves the right to terminate a computer session at any time to anyone suspected of violating the library policy, Federal, State or local laws based on observation by library staff. The library will also determine when a violation, or continued violation, warrants suspension or termination of computer privileges of anyone abusing the above mentioned policies, rules and guidelines.