Internet Use Policy
The Library provides wired, Library-owned computers, as well as unsecured wireless Internet access for public use on their own devices. This policy applies to all use of Waupun Public Library’s wired or wireless Internet service, whether privately-owned or Library-provided devices are operated. Due to circumstances beyond our control, the Library cannot guarantee that Internet service will be available at any time, nor guarantee Internet speed or the quality of the connection.
Providing access to information available on the Internet does not constitute endorsement of the content by the Library. The Waupun Public Library expressly disclaims any liability or responsibility arising from access to or use of information obtained through the Internet.
The Library will protect patron’s rights to privacy and confidentiality, and keeps any communications that reside on its computer network confidential. However, communication may not be secure and networks are sometimes susceptible to outside intervention. The Library does not reveal information about an individual’s use of computer resources unless compelled to do so by a court order.
Filters are not installed on any Library computers. However, the access or display of text, graphics, or sounds which may reasonably be construed as inappropriate, obscene* or disruptive to others in the Library is prohibited. Section 948.11 of the Wisconsin Statutes makes it a crime to expose children to pictures or images of nudity, sexually explicit conduct, or physical torture or brutality that appeal to prurient, shameful or morbid interests, are patently offensive to prevailing adult standards regarding materials suitable for children, or lack serious literary, artistic, political, scientific or educational value for children.
*[To be obscene, (1) the average person, applying contemporary standards, must find that the work, taken as a whole, appeals to prurient interests; (2) the work must depict or describe, in a patently offensive way, sexual conduct as specified in the applicable statutes; and (3) the work, taken as a whole, must lack serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value.]
The parent or legal guardian is responsible to monitor their children’s use of Library materials and resources, including the Internet, and must sign an Internet Use Permission Form for any child under the age of 16.
Patrons may reserve time on a Library-owned Internet computer by phone or in person up to one week in advance. Reservation of an Internet workstation by one person is limited to one hour per day. If no one else wishes to use the computer at the end of a reserved time slot, the patron may continue to use the computer at the discretion of Library staff. Walk-in time may be available in unscheduled time slots or when a scheduled user fails to keep an appointment. Reservations may be canceled if a person is 5 minutes late for reserved time.
No more than 2 persons may use an Internet computer at one time, unless a parent is accompanying 2 children. Special arrangements can be made for classes and groups. Patrons will be charged for printing as posted. The person using the Library equipment is liable for any copyright or licensing infringement.
Violations may result in suspension or loss of privileges to use computer resources at the Library. Any illegal activity involving the use of the Library’s computers, including the Internet, is strictly prohibited and will be subject to prosecution by the appropriate authorities. If a user feels that s/he has wrongfully lost her/his privileges, s/he may appeal the Library’s decision to the Library Director and/or the Library Board and the decision will be investigated.
Adopted 1/18/16
