Internet and Electronic Access Policy

It is the mission of the Easthampton Public Library to “develop collections and services to help meet the informational, research, educational, and recreational needs of the City of Easthampton and surrounding communities”.  It is within this context that the Easthampton Public Library offers access to the Internet and other electronic resources.

Internet and Electronic Resources Access Policy

The Internet is a vast global electronic network that provides diverse resources. The Library has a responsibility to provide material and information presenting all points of view and the Library supports access to all formats of material to meet the informational needs of the community.

By providing access to the Internet, information becomes available that may cover a broader area than that found in the Library’s collections. Some material accessed electronically may not meet the standards set in the Library’s Collection Development policy. The Internet should not be considered a substitute for other library resources. The most appropriate information may more easily be found in books, magazines, or research databases.

As with other library resources, parents or legal guardians are expected and encouraged to explore the Internet and other electronic resources with their children and to provide guidance in appropriate information selection and limitations on access for their children.

Library patrons must be aware that:

• Not all sources on the Internet provide accurate, complete, or current information
• The Easthampton Public Library does not control your access to materials or protect you from information you may personally find offensive or inappropriate
• Patrons are advised that they have no expectation of privacy in Library computers, and that library personnel and other patrons may be able to access information or data stored on library computers.

Usage

The public and staff may only use the Internet and Electronic Resources for lawful purposes. The posting transmitting, accessing, or displaying of obscene material, as defined by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 272, Section 31, is prohibited. Conduct which would violate any state or federal law is prohibited.

Internet access is a privilege that the library may provide to patrons, and comes with certain responsibilities. Unacceptable uses of these resources by anyone will result in the suspension of access privileges.

Children’s Use of the Internet

The Library is aware of parental and governmental concerns about child safety on the Internet. The Library also cares deeply about children and has put in place policies, procedures, and offers information for parents to ensure children have an enriching and safe online experience.

While instruction is provided and help offered, librarians cannot monitor individual use of the Internet. Access to the Internet carries with it the potential to deliberately or accidentally access inaccurate, inappropriate, or offensive material. Therefore, parents and guardians are encouraged to take an active role in their children’s use of the Internet and to talk about their personal values, expectations, and rules for safe behavior when using this resource.

All electronic resources available through the Library are provided equally to all library users. The Library affirms the right and responsibility of parents or legal guardians to guide their children’s use of all library resources, including the Internet.  As is the case with all other library materials, any restriction of a child’s access to the Internet is the responsibility of the child’s parent or legal guardian.