The Southfield Public Library is dedicated to providing access to information on the Internet. The Internet offers access to a wealth of information that can be personally, professionally and culturally enriching. However, the Internet may contain dated, inaccurate, or incomplete information and material of a potentially offensive nature. The Library assumes responsibility only for the information provided of its own authorship on the Library’s web site. All computer users assume responsibility for their own use of the Internet.
As of 2015, the Southfield Public Library continues to comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA). “The Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) was enacted by Congress in 2000 to address concerns about children’s access to obscene or harmful content over the internet.” (FCC, gov) The Library uses filtering software on all public computers allowing internet access in order to safeguard children from viewing obscene images on computers. In addition, the Library has developed, enforces and regularly reviews its Library Computer Use and Internet Safety Policy designed to protect all public computer users. Public computer users must accept this Policy before proceeding with their session each time they use a computer.
Disallowed, illegal or unethical use of Library computers is prohibited. Misuse of computer equipment may result in a denial of computer service or further action by local authorities. Such practices include but are not limited to:
- Willful damage of Library computers or equipment.
- Attempting to upload files or attempting to bypass local security measures or filtering.
- Breaking in or out of any system.
- Propagation of computer worms or viruses.
- Transmitting threatening, obscene, or harassing materials.
- Infringement of copyright laws.
- Attempting to attach any unauthorized equipment to the Library computers or network.
- Perpetrating fraud or engaging in other illegal acts.
Limits of Usage
Due to the great popularity of the Library’s public Internet access computers, it may be necessary to limit the time spent on a computer. Users are required to abide by Library staff’s requests regarding computer usage. Determination of the staff is final.
Special Strong Caution to Parents
The Southfield Public Library supports parents in their efforts to guide their children’s access to information. Parents who are concerned about what their children may encounter when using Library computers must accompany their children to the Library and closely supervise their use of services.
Non – Filtered Access
Non – filtered access is available from a small number of computers in the Library. These computers may only be used to access bona fide research content. Only users over the age of 18 or minors accompanied by a parent or legal guardian may use these computers. Proof of age and / or identification may be requested. Parents or legal guardians must physically stay at the computer with the child. Time limits may be imposed.
Appeal Process
If a user feels that a site is being blocked in error or that a web site should be blocked, users should speak to a Librarian. The City Librarian will consider the appeal and this final decision shall be communicated to the complainant within five business days.
This policy will be reviewed by the Library Staff on a periodic basis. This policy was last updated/reviewed 6/17/15.
Resolved: that the Child Internet Protection Policy be accepted as submitted on June 17, 2015.
AYES: Mancini, McCollough, Evans, Cohen, Rose
NAYS: None
MOTION APPROVED
Approved by the Library Board on June 17, 2015
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