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Internet Policy and Acceptable Use Guidelines I Page 1 Library Website: Lafayetteco.gov Internet Policy and Acceptable Use Guidelines Revised September 2014 Purpose and Scope of Internet Access Throughout its history, the Lafayette Public Library has made information available in a variety of print, audiovisual, and electronic formats. The Internet enables the Library to provide information beyond the confines of its own collection, and services required in the electronic age which are unaffordable by many. Access is made available via our public computers and open Wi-Fi. The Internet is an unregulated medium. As such, material exists on it that is personally, professionally, and culturally enriching, but there also exists material which could be offensive, disturbing, or illegal. The Library only assumes responsibility for the information provided on its home page and the supporting web pages resident on its server. Library patrons use the Internet at their own risk. Parents are advised to supervise their children’s Internet sessions. Responsibilities of Internet Computer and Wi-Fi Users Legal Use - Users must use computer resources for legal purposes only. Unacceptable uses include, but are not limited to the following: · Unauthorized copying of copyright-protected material · Destruction or damage to equipment, software, or data · Unauthorized monitoring or disruption of electronic communications · Unauthorized use or destruction of other users’ data · Slandering, libeling, or harassing other users · Violating fraud, obscenity, or privacy laws Ethical Use - Users must use resources in accordance with ethical standards of the Library, which prohibit: · Violation of user privacy · Unauthorized use of computer accounts or access codes · Use of a computer which impedes activities of others. · Violation of software license agreements · Violation of computer security ---PAGE BREAK--- Internet Policy and Acceptable Use Guidelines I Page 2 Library Website: Lafayetteco.gov Cooperative Use - Users should use computer resources in a way that enables limited resources to be shared in an equitable manner with others. Ways to promote shared use include: · Complying with the Library’s sign-up procedures · Adhering to time limits for computer use · Refraining from the use of sounds or visuals which may be disruptive or offensive to others using the Library. Illegal Use or Misuse of Library Computer and Wi-Fi Resources Violators of the law are subject to prosecution by federal, state, and local authorities. Misuse or abuse of Internet access or the Library’s computer systems may result in suspension of computer and/or Library privileges. Liability In consideration for the privilege of using the system and having access to the free information contained within it, users release and hold harmless the City of Lafayette, its officers, agents, servants or employees, the Lafayette Public Library, its staff, volunteers, representatives or advisors, from any and all liability or responsibility for any and all claims, damages, losses, costs or expenses arising either directly or indirectly from the use of this system, whether or not caused, in whole or in part, by alleged negligence of the City of Lafayette, its officers, agents, servants, employees, volunteers, representatives or advisors.