Computer/Wireless access

Library Computer Use

Library patrons are granted free access to available computers on a first come first served basis. All patrons must agree to the library’s Internet Access Policy in order to use the internet on library computers.

Use of Wireless Access in the Library

The library offers a free wireless internet connection to any patrons who wish to use their own portable computers or electronic devices at the library.  A limited number of electrical outlets are available near several seating areas, and patrons are welcome to plug in their laptops or other personal electronic devices.  However, power cords and other cables may not obstruct traffic, seating, or tables.

Users of the library’s wireless network must agree to the Internet Use Policy, as prompted when you open your browser, to log into the network.

There is no time limit to use the wireless connection.

Internet Access Policy

The St. Clairsville Public Library provides free public access to the internet, a medium that offers a wealth of educational, recreational, and cultural information for library users. Because the internet is a vast, unregulated medium, the library cannot control, and is not responsible for, the content or accuracy of information accessed over the internet.

In accordance with Ohio law, the library uses filtering software to block access to some internet sites, as required. Since no filtering system is completely effective or efficient, further restriction of a minor’s access to the internet is the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian.  Internet service to patrons age 12 and under will be available in the Children’s Department.  Internet users in the children’s area are not permitted to access internet sites which may be unsuitable for minors. Patrons are forbidden to use the internet in a manner that is deliberately offensive or creates a hostile or intimidating environment, or which is in violation of the law.

The following are prohibited while in the library, whether a patron is using the library’s computer or a personal computer or electronic device:

Viewing objectionable, obscene or profane content, whether via websites, personal files, or other means of access.

Utilizing sites, files, content or equipment in any way that is prohibited by law.

Adults, age 18 or older, may bypass the filter by requesting that a library staff member override the filter at selected library computer stations.

To address issues of safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms, message boards, social networking sites and other forms of electronic communication, parents and legal guardians should urge minors to follow basic safety guidelines: never give out personal information (name, address, phone number, etc.), never arrange via a computer to meet someone and never respond to messages that are threatening or suggestive, remembering that people online may not be who they say they are.

The library prevents the use of excessive bandwidth if it interferes with access by limiting or obstructing other users.  Patrons are prohibited from downloading files, programs, or any other content onto the hard drive of any of the library computers.  Patrons may download to an external drive.  Staff may require external drives to be screened for viruses at the staff desk prior to use.

Internet services will be free of charge, but copies made on the library printer will be charged at the regular price assigned to that printer.

The Library does not release information on the use of the internet by library users, except as required by law (See Records Request Policy – PS 4.12).

Users will adhere to all federal, state and local laws. Users may not attempt in any way to alter, damage, or sabotage computer hardware or software (practices known as hacking) and will be financially responsible for any malicious damage to hardware or software. Users consent to monitoring of computer use for administrative and legal purposes. The library is not liable for any damage to a patron’s disk, electronic storage device or computer that may occur from use of the internet at the library; nor is the library responsible for any liability that may occur as a result of the disclosure of financial or other personal information while accessing the internet at the library.

Failure to comply with this policy may result in loss of access. Illegal acts may be subject to prosecution by local, state, or federal authorities.

All patrons must agree to this Internet Use Policy before internet access will be granted.