A. Mission
It is in the context of its mission to “inspire intellect, curiosity, and imagination” that the library provides access to the Internet and computer resources.
B. Definition and Purpose of Technology Access
The Internet is an international network of databases interlinking an enormous number of local networks operated by research centers, universities, non-profit and commercial organizations, individuals and government agencies worldwide. There is no central control, management or governance over its content. It provides a means of access to information far beyond the Library’s own collection.
Information on the Internet is not necessarily current, accurate, or complete. While much valuable information is available on the Internet, some may be considered by our local community standards to be obscene, patently offensive or harmful, especially to minor children, as defined by applicable state and/or federal laws. The Frisco Public Library must balance the desire for free unrestricted access to varying informational against the need to avoid material that may be harmful to minors or that violates community standards as defined by applicable state law and/or is obscene. For purposes of this policy minors are defined to include all individuals under the age of eighteen years.
C. Applicable Laws
Certain local, state, or federal legislation may govern or pertain to use of the Internet or of digital resources. The following are representative, not inclusive, of such regulation:
1.Texas Penal code 43:24. Sale, Distribution, or Display of Harmful Material to Minor: (b) A person commits an offense if, knowing that the material is harmful: (2) he displays harmful material and is reckless about whether a minor is present who will be offended or alarmed by the display.
2.U.S. Copyright law (Title 17, U.S. Code). Prohibits unauthorized reproduction or distribution of copyrighted materials, except as permitted by principles of “fair use.” Responsibility for any possible copyright infringement lies solely with the user. The Frisco Public Library expressly disclaims any liability or responsibility resulting thereof.
D. Disclaimer
In consideration for the privilege of using the Library and for having access to the information contained in it, library customers hereby release and hold harmless the City of Frisco, its officers, agents, servants, or employees, the Frisco Public Library, its staff, volunteers, representatives or advisors, from any and all liability or responsibility for any and all claims or expenses arising either directly or indirectly from the use of the Library, whether or not caused, in whole or in part, by alleged negligence of the City of Frisco, its officers, agents, servants, employees, volunteers, representatives or advisors.
E. Internet Access by Minors: Regulations and Restrictions
A minor, a person under the age of eighteen, must have written approval by his or her parent or legal guardian to use library computers. Written approval must be in the form of approval slips provided by the Frisco Public Library. Approval slips are available at the circulation desk.
F. General Responsibilities of Customers Use of the Internet and library computers is a privilege, not a right. The Frisco Public Library expects customers, in order to keep their privileges intact, to use the resources in a responsible manner. Responsible use of the Internet and library computers includes, but is not limited to, the following:
Violations may result in loss of library privileges or access. Unlawful activities will be referred to the appropriate legal authority and will be dealt with in a serious and appropriate manner.
G. Confidentiality of Use
Records of the Frisco Public Library which identify or serve to identify a person who requests, obtains, or uses library materials or services are confidential and are excepted from required disclosure under the Texas Open Records Act, with the following exceptions: Such records may be disclosed only if:
In the event that records are released to appropriate law enforcement officials under the USA Patriot Act, the library is prohibited from disclosing information about a search warrant, subpoena, or court order.
H. Staff Assistance
Due to the various skill levels and time constraints of library scheduling, Internet trained staff may not always be available for personal assistance. Library staff cannot provide in-depth training on Internet computer usage or personal computer usage one-on-one. Staff is, however, able to offer professionally acquired skills to provide suggestions and tips for searching and offer basic computer education courses for library customers.
I. Sanctions
Library users who violate this policy, or who refuse to comply with applicable federal, state and local laws, may be removed from the Library and may have their library privileges revoked. The Librarian-in-Charge has the authority to terminate a user’s Internet and/or computer session in accordance with these sanctions. This decision may be appealed to the Director of the Frisco Public Library.
Violations of policies described above regarding legal and ethical use of the Library’s electronic resources will be dealt with in a serious and appropriate manner. Illegal acts involving the Library’s Internet and computer resources may be subject to prosecution by federal, state, or local authorities.
J. Responsibility and Authority
Final responsibility and authority for Internet and computer access is vested by the City Council of the City of Frisco in the Director of Frisco Public Library, who will operate within a framework of policies and principles adopted by the City Council of Frisco. The staff will operate under the Director’s delegated authority.
Frisco Public Library is authorized to develop such procedures, guidelines, and rules as may be necessary to carry out these policies. Further, the Library is authorized to utilize appropriate technologies to address the implementation of these policies.