MISSION STATEMENT
To serve as a resource center for educational, cultural, personal, and community enrichment.

INTRODUCTION
The Internet allows users to connect to vast networks of information, resources, and ideas outside the library. Currently, the Internet is an unregulated medium. As such, it offers access to a wealth of material that is personally, professionally, and culturally enriching to individuals of all ages. It also enables access to some material that may be inaccurate, offensive, disturbing and/or illegal. Users must accept personal responsibility for determining the suitability and appropriateness of information obtained through the Internet.

INTERNET SAFETY
The library addresses Internet safety issues through its Internet Acceptable Use Agreement and Parental Permission Agreement.

CONDITIONS AND TERMS OF INTERNET USE IN THE LIBRARY
In an effort to ensure that the use of the Internet is consistent with the mission of the Catawba County Library System, the following rules shall apply:

· Users must have and maintain a library card in good standing. Failure to return library materials or pay outstanding fines will result in immediate suspension of Internet privileges. Users MUST have their library card with them each time they wish to use the public Internet computers at the library.

· All users, regardless of age, will sign an Internet Acceptable Use Agreement (see attached.)

· To assure parental guidance in children’s use of the Internet:
Children under 18 require a parent to sign a Parental Permission Agreement.
(Forms may not be taken home for signature.)

· Internet use will be managed in a manner consistent with the library’s Library Code of Conduct, which is posted in the library.

· Failure to use the Internet stations appropriately and responsibly, as defined in the Internet Acceptable Use Agreement will result in revocation of Internet use privileges and/or library use privileges. Unacceptable use that is illegal may result in criminal prosecution as well.




Adopted June 17, 2002



Catawba County Library System
Internet Acceptable Use Agreement
Please read this document carefully before signing the Agreement


Time Limits
Internet computers are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Computer use is limited to one hour per session unless no one is waiting.

Printing
There is 10 cents per page charge for black/white printing and .25 for color. Please use the Print Preview feature to make sure your print job is correct. You must pay for ALL copies. Staff is willing to help if you have questions. Print jobs will be sent to a laser printer located behind the circulation desk. Contact a staff member to obtain your copies.

Saving Files
If you wish to save your work, you must save it to the floppy disk drive. Disks may be purchased at the circulation desk for $1.00 each.

Computer Use
· Please do not use any software programs other than those, which the library has installed. Tampering with the computer hardware or software is prohibited.
· Materials downloaded from the Internet may contain computer viruses. The Catawba County Library System is not responsible for any damage that may subsequently occur.
· A maximum of two people may use the same computer. Both users must sign the Internet Acceptable Use Agreement.
· Preference will be given to customers conducting business, research, or homework.

Rules/Restrictions
Internet use will be managed in a manner consistent with the Library’s Code of Conduct. The following actions will not be allowed:

· Using or displaying obscene or disruptive messages, files or images as defined in the North Carolina General Statues
· Changing or adding files to the network, changing any settings on the workstation, or adding any programs such as Yahoo Messenger
· Harassing, insulting, or attacking others
· Unauthorized access including “hacking” and other unlawful activities
· Violating copyright or software license restrictions
· Unauthorized disclosure of, use of, or dissemination of a minor’s personal information by means of the Internet, email or any other electronic technology. A minor must have the authorization of their parent or guardian to disclose their own personal information.

Violations of these rules may result in a loss of access as well as appropriate legal action. You will receive one (1) warning. A second infraction will result in a one month of suspension from the Internet computers. Repeat offenders will have their Internet privileges (at the library) revoked.

Warning
Users must be careful not to expose themselves to dangerous situations when using email, chat rooms and all other forms of electronic communication.

User Agreement
I have read and will abide by the Catawba County Library System’s Policy for Access to Internet Resources and the Internet Acceptable Use Agreement.

Signature _____________________________________________________________________

Date _________________________________________________________________________

Print User Name ______________________________________________________________

User ID# _____________________________________________________________________

Staff Initials ___________________________________________________________________


Parental Permission Agreement


We encourage all parents and children to read Child Safety on the Information Highway from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at www.safekids.com/child.safety.htm

Parents should remind their children to be careful not to expose themselves to dangerous situations when using email and all other forms of electronic communication.

As the parent or legal guardian of the minor child listed below, I have read and agreed to comply with the library’s Policy for Access to Internet Resources and the Internet Acceptable Use Agreement.

I accept the responsibility and grant permission for my child under age 18 to use the Internet independently at the Catawba County Library. I have read the Internet Acceptable Use Agreement and agree to my child’s use of library Internet resources. I accept responsibility for Internet sites visited by my child, including email, and for any fees incurred. I understand and agree that Catawba County and the Library System are not responsible or liable for anything my child views while using the Internet.


Parent or guardian’s signature___________________________________________

Child’s name _________________________________________________________

Child’s age ___________________________________________________________

Birth date ____________________________________________________________

Address _____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

Phone number _________________________________________________________

Date ________________________________________________________________

Staff Signature ________________________________________________________