Internet Use Policy
In keeping with Piqua Public Library’s mission to provide materials, information, technology, and opportunities to enrich, empower, educate, and entertain Miami County residents of all ages, the Library provides free public access to the Internet for all users. This Internet Use Policy applies to all Users who access internet at the Library, both wired and wireless. By using the Library’s internet, Users agree to the terms of this Internet Use Policy.
Users of Library internet must comply with all local, state, and federal laws, in addition to the following restrictions:
· Users may not move, unplug, modify, or otherwise alter the internet equipment or cables for any reason.
· The Library cannot control and is not responsible for the content or accuracy of information accessed over the internet. We do not assume responsibility for the reliability of the local network. The availability of information on the Internet or any networked information does not constitute an endorsement or ratification of that information by the Library. Users are responsible for scrutinizing information on the Internet for reliability and point of view.
· The Library recognizes the right and responsibility of parents and guardians to guide their children’s Library use, including the internet. Access to the internet and information available through it is the responsibility of the parent, legal guardian, or caregiver, and it is their responsibility to establish standards and guidelines regarding which Library resources and internet websites are appropriate for their children’s access and use.
· Users assume all risks and responsibilities associated with connection to the public Library Wi-Fi. Library staff may not be able to help with technical questions. The Library cannot guarantee that a User’s hardware will work with the Library’s Wi-Fi.
· Users assume all risks and responsibilities associated with any damage to patron-owned computer equipment and/or devices that may occur from use of the internet. It is the User’s responsibility to have up-to-date virus protection on patron-owned equipment and devices. The Library is not responsible for personal items left unattended.
· Use of the Library’s internet for the spreading of viruses, any effort to bypass the Library’s computer network, hacking, and/or other misuse of the Library’s internet is prohibited.
· Users assume all risks and responsibilities associated with connection to the internet including, but not limited to, loss of personal information, security or financial issues, or consequences caused by viruses or hacking. Any information sent or received over a wireless network is subject to the risk of interception by another wireless user.
· The Library shall not be responsible for damage to any personal data or removable data.
· Access to and/or display of obscene language and sexually explicit graphics and materials, as defined in the Ohio Revised Code, including sections 2907.01 and 2907.31 and as determined by Library staff is prohibited in all areas of the Library.
· Viewing sexually explicit material while using the Library’s Internet is prohibited, and may be considered disruptive behavior or sexual harassment if it harasses, intimidates, disturbs or has the potential to harass, intimidate, or disturb others as defined in the Library’s Patron Code of Conduct and Sexual Harassment policies, respectively. Users will be asked to discontinue viewing the disturbing material or leave the building.
· The Library does not actively collect browsing data. The Library does not release information on the use of the internet by Library users except as required by law.
· All Users release and hold the Library harmless from any and all claims, losses, damages, obligations or liabilities, directly or indirectly relating to their use of the Library’s available internet access. In no event shall the Library have any liability for indirect, special, punitive or consequential damages or any liability to any third party, even if the Library is advised of the possibility of such damages.
Patrons who fail to comply with this policy may lose their internet privileges or may be banned from the Library. Illegal acts may be subject to prosecution by local, state, or federal authorities.