Computer/Internet Access Policy

Users must read and agree to these policies prior to using computer workstations and accessing the Internet at the Lincoln Public Library.

Lincoln Public Library's commitment to public service reaches beyond the traditional collections and resources of a public library. In its mission to provide opportunities for lifelong learning, the library is continually responsive to the changing needs of the community. Therefore, Lincoln Public Library provides access to the Internet to support our mission to make available information in a variety of formats.

The Internet offers global access to information. Not all information found on the Internet is accurate, complete, current, legal, or inoffensive. It is the user’s responsibility to determine the validity or accuracy of the found on the Internet. The library does not monitor Internet use. Reference Staff is available to assist patrons in conducting Internet searches.

To the extent practical, technology protection measures (or “Internet Filters”) shall be used to block or filter access to inappropriate information. Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA), blocking shall be applied to visual depictions of material deemed obscene or child pornography, or to any material deemed harmful to minors.

Subject to staff supervision, technology protection measures may be disabled for bona fide research or other lawful purposes.

Patrons should know that they may encounter sexually explicit or other material they find offensive and controversial on the Internet, even though there may be technology protection measures in place on Lincoln Public Library’s computer network.

As with all Library resources, the Library affirms the right and responsibility of parents/guardians, NOT Library staff, to determine and monitor their minor children's use of the Internet. (Minors are defined in this policy as children and young people under the age of 18 years.) Parents are responsible for their minor children's use of the Library's resources and facilities. Parents who believe that their children cannot responsibly use the Library's Internet access are requested to monitor their children's Internet use.

By using a library computer, patrons are agreeing to abide by the library policy on public use of computer workstations and access to the Internet.

Regulations Governing Patron Use of Computer Workstations at Lincoln Public Library:

  1. Each user must present his/her own valid OSL card at the circulation desk for 1 hour of use.
  2. Those who are 10 and over are allowed to use computer workstations without an adult present. However, younger children must be supervised by an adult. A parent or guardian's signature allowing computer use is required for those under 18.
  3. Workstations can be reserved in advance. Users can remain longer than an hour if scheduling permits. Please be aware that during peak computer use times, the 1 hour limit will be strictly enforced. Anyone coming late for his or her reserved time will forfeit the entire hour and must wait for the next free workstation.
  4. Users should report any problems with hardware or software to staff immediately.
  5. Users must have basic computer skills.
  6. Library staff can provide limited assistance with basic computer use.
  7. Users can save files only to the A drive (3.5 floppy diskettes) or a flash drive with a USB port. Users can provide their own diskettes or purchase one from the Friends of the Lincoln Public Library. Users are not allowed to delete, add to, or modify installed hardware or software.
  8. Printing costs are 10 cents per page for black and white. Color copies are available through the Reference Desk for 50 cents per page.
  9. Instant messaging, multiple user dungeons, games, and chat rooms are prohibited due to potential security problems, bandwidth issues, and software conflicts.
  10. Users may not copy or distribute electronic materials, except as permitted by the Fair Use regulation without permission of the copyright owner.
  11. Patrons using the Internet in the library may not display text or graphics defined by federal or state law as obscenity or pornography, or any material that we deem inappropriate. Deliberate and continued display of some materials that are not obscene or pornographic may still constitute sexual harassment. Actions that violate federal, state, or local laws will be referred to the appropriate law enforcement agencies.
  12. Misuse of the computer or Internet access may result in the loss of computer privileges.
  13. Use of computer stations will end 15 minutes before closing.

Revised 1/29/02
Revised 6/22/04
Revised 11/27/07