Internet Use Policy

Southbury Public Library

Internet Use Policy

The Southbury Public Library is dedicated to being the preeminent source of free information and knowledge for the community, by educating, inspiring and connecting patrons to books, AV and technology including the Internet. The library provides public access computers through which its patrons may access the Internet.

The Internet is a global powerful tool providing a wealth of information beyond the library’s walls. The Internet is unregulated. Some information accessed through the Internet may be considered inaccurate, incomplete or dated and some material may be considered offensive, disturbing and/or illegal. The library cannot assume responsibility for content, accuracy, or completeness or the nature of information found on the Internet, or be responsible for the use of the Internet by its patrons.  

The Southbury Public Library disclaims any liability or responsibility arising from access to or use of information obtained through the Internet or any Library electronic system, and encompassing any activities by a patron found to be illegal, or any consequences thereof.

The Library assumes no responsibility for the security or privacy of online transactions.  Any patrons who release personal identifying information, credits or bank account numbers, do so at their own risk. Patrons are encouraged to LOG OUT of all e-mail sessions and websites.

In accordance with federal and state laws and regulations, patrons are not permitted to use library computers for an illegal or criminal purpose, including, but not limited to, accessing legally obscene materials, harassment or stalking, unauthorized access to computer systems, or in a manner disruptive to other people’s work. All patrons should act in a responsible manner consistent with the Behavior Policy of the library, and for children, consistent with parental or legal guardian’s guidance.

The library’s computers are in public areas. Therefore, all patrons should refrain from accessing potentially objectionable or offensive information or images.

Only Library provided software may be used on the Library’s computers. Computer patrons may not install or download software programs or files onto the library’s computer’s hard drive. Patrons may not intentionally remove, alter or damage hardware, software or data on the library’s computers or network.

As with print materials, information from the Internet may be subject to copyright laws that govern the making of reproductions of copyrighted works. Users must comply with U. S. Copyright law and other applicable legal principles. The Library is not responsible for any infringement by patrons of copyright or other intellectual property rights.

Children’s and Teen Department

These computers are principally for the use of children and their accompanying parent, guardian or other adult caregiver. Since the Southbury Public Library does not filter the content of the Internet. Parents/legal guardians of children under 18 are solely responsible for their children’s use of the Internet.

Failure to use the Internet appropriately and responsibly according to this policy may result in suspension of Internet use privileges.

This policy is subject to continuous review.

Adopted by Southbury Public Library Board of Directors November 2, 2005.

Revised and approved by Southbury Public Board of Directors March 10, 2021.

Reviewed by Town Attorney Jan./Feb./March 2021.