Internet Use Policy

Purpose:

In response to advances in technology, the Clearwater Public Library endeavors to develop resources and services that meet the informational, educational, and recreational needs of the community. It is within this context that the library offers access to the internet.

The internet offers access to a wealth of material that is personally, professionally, and culturally enriching to individuals of all ages. It is, however, an unregulated medium with a highly diverse user population. The library cannot successfully control and monitor the vast amount of material accessible via the internet. It is possible that individuals might access information they personally find offensive, disturbing, or inaccurate. This policy applies to all internet access, electronic equipment, and electronic devices used while on library property.

Policy:

• Individual users must accept responsibility for determining the suitability of content for themselves and their children.
• Sources on the internet do not always provide accurate, complete, or current information. As with any material provided by the library, the user must take responsibility in questioning the validity of the information found.
• Library electronic equipment and software must be used as installed. Users are not permitted to delete, add to, or modify hardware or software.
• Users may not use the library's electronic equipment or internet access to make unauthorized entry into any other electronic device or network.
• Users may not disrupt or interfere with other electronic devices or network users, services, or electronic equipment. Intentional disruption of the operation of computer systems and networks is a violation of state law, Chapter 815, Florida Statutes, and users may be held responsible.
• Users may not represent themselves as another person or use another person’s library card in order to utilize library electronic equipment or internet access.
• Users may not use library electronic equipment or internet access to view or transmit obscene, threatening, or harassing materials.
• Users must respect the legal protections to data and software provided by copyright and license law.
• Although the library staff is able to offer search suggestions and answer basic questions, they cannot provide in-depth training or assistance regarding the internet or electronic equipment.
• Users may not view material that can reasonably be expected to disturb other patrons or that staff is not permitted to access.
• It is a violation of state law, Chapter 847, Florida Statutes, to view “child pornography” or “obscene material” or to provide material “harmful to minors” to any person under the age of 18.

Reviewed January 2021