Purpose: Under the American Library Association Bill of Rights, the Library extends access to information and media by offering public Internet access, public access computers and devices, online research databases, applications, and printing.

In order to ensure fair and proper use of the Library’s computing resources, patrons are responsible for abiding by the following rules. If patrons fail to comply with the rules, access to Library computing resources may be suspended. The Library reserves the right to terminate an internet session if the following terms of use and/or rules are violated.

Terms of Use:

1. The Library cannot guarantee the accuracy of information on or connectivity to the Internet.

2. The Library filters content on public access computers, including in the Children’s Room and Teen Room. In compliance with

   Section 42.1-36.1 of the Code of Virginia, the Eastern Shore Public Library has installed blocking software on its public access computers. The purpose of this software is to protect minors from exposure to internet sites that are deemed to be obscene, pornographic, or harmful to children. Under Virginia state law, Library staff can unblock individual websites that have been erroneously blocked by the filter. In addition, Library staff may disable the filter at the request of a patron to enable access for bona fide research or other lawful purposes.

3. The Library cannot guarantee the privacy of data or computer usage.

4. Patrons assume responsibility for their personal devices.

5. The Library’s Behavior Code applies to computer and Internet use.

6. Use of library computers for illegal activity, including copyright infringement, will result in loss of library computer access

   privileges. Display of sexually explicit graphics or otherwise offensive material is inappropriate for an open public environment

   and is prohibited.

7. Patrons accept financial responsibility for any damage they cause to library property.

8. Staff are generally available for assistance, but training and/or requested assistance cannot be guaranteed due to staff availability

   limitations.

Requirements for Use:

1. Please sign-in at the circulation desk. Anyone wishing to have access to the Internet must present his or her own valid library card or photo identification.

2. Sessions have thirty minute time limits, which may be extended if no one else is waiting.

3. Library computers or devices in the children’s area are to be used only by children or adults who are accompanying a child.

4. Library computers or devices in the teen area are for ages 13-19 use only during posted hours.

5. It is the responsibility of parents and guardians to inform library staff if they do not want their child to have access to the Internet.

   A form indicating this restriction is available at the circulation desk and must be signed at each library location in which the child

   will be visiting. (See Unattended Child Policy)

6. Patrons should use their own disks or devices when saving information. Any data left on a computer’s hard drive will be deleted.

Additional Information:

As with all other library materials, children’s access to and use of the Internet is the sole responsibility of the child’s parent or legal guardian. The Internet may provide access to information, content and services some of which parents may feel is inappropriate or objectionable for their own children. The Library and its staff cannot censor access to materials or prevent users from encountering materials on the Internet that they may find offensive. Parents should let their children know about information, content and services on the Internet that they do not want them to access or use. Or, parents should supervise their own child’s Internet sessions at the Library. For more information on children and the Internet,visit Connect Safely.

See Parent's Guide to Filters & the Internet.
Parents and children should read NetSmartz.org from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.

See also: ALA Bill of Rights
Replaces August 2, 2010 policy. Approved by the ESPL Board of Trustees on April 9, 2019.