WILLIMANTIC PUBLIC LIBRARY INTERNET POLICY

To maximize availability to this resource, and to ensure fair accessibility to all, please note the following guidelines, rules and procedures.

Internet access is available on 13 terminals in the library; 6 in the Children's Department and 7 in the Adult Department.  Access to the Internet is compatible with the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights, the Freedom to Read, the Freedom to View, Access to Electronic Information Services and Networks, the Children's Internet Protection Act and with the policies, goals and objectives of the Willimantic Public Library mission of service.

The Internet allows users to connect to networks of resources and information located outside the library.  The library does not filter the content available from any Internet source.  The library has no control over the content of these resources nor do we have complete knowledge of what is available on the net.  The library does not warrant the information available through its connections to be accurate, authoritative, factual, timely or useful and does not endorse the content of networked information made available by means of these connections.

The Willimantic Public Library assumes no responsibility for damages, direct or indirect, arising from the use of these electronic services, or from its connection to other Internet services through its provider, Bibliomation Inc.  Library users access the Internet at their own risk and discretion.  As with other materials, the restriction of a child's access to the Internet is the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian.  We recommend that parents take an active interest in and responsibility for their child's online access.

The use of the Willimantic Public Library (WPL) Internet service for any purpose contrary to local, state or federal laws is strictly prohibited and subject to prosecution.  It is prohibited to use the WPL Internet so as to interfere, threaten, engage in predatory behavior or disrupt other users, services or equipment.  This includes but is not limited to the distribution of unsolicited advertising, chain letters, 'spamming', propagation of computer viruses or worms, and the installation of .suid, .rhosts or similar files.  Such activities will result in the loss of privileges and criminal prosecution.  Screening of sexually explicit materials is considered sexual harassment and is not allowed on WPL terminals.  The Copyright Protection Act prohibits the use of library equipment in the copying and downloaded transfer of protected music or data sources.  Use of the WPL gateway is intended for private, non-commercial activities, and does not permit sales and the marketing of products or services.  The WPL Internet does not offer the creation of email addresses.

The library staff does not offer instruction in basic computer operations and Internet searching technique.  A minimal level of competence is expected for users of the workstations.  Please investigate other educational programs available elsewhere for in-depth training.