Milan Public Library

Phone: 734.439.1240 ---------- 151 Wabash - Milan, MI - 48160 ---------- Fax: 734.439.5625

Milan Public Library Internet Agreement

May 2008

In keeping with the Library’s goal to provide access to information within the full scope of recorded human expression, the Milan Public Library offers access to the Internet as an informational, educational and recreational resource for its patrons. The Internet is a vast, every-changing global network providing a wide range of information and data from around the world.

Due to the size, scope and rapidity of changes on the Internet, some information may be outdated, incorrect or biased. The Library encourages the critical evaluation of all information found.

All of Milan Public Library’s computers are wireless. As with most public wireless situations, the library’s wireless connection is not secure. There can be non-trustworthy third parties between the user and anybody with whom the user communicates. Any information being sent, or received, could potentially be intercepted by another wireless user. Cautious and informed wireless users should not transmit their credit card information, passwords, or any other sensitive personal information while using the Library’s computers. The library will not be responsible for any personal information (e.g. credit card, passwords, etc.) that is compromised.

The Milan Public Library has provided computers for use by anyone less than 18 years of age. Parents, or guardians of minor children, are responsible for their child’s use of the Internet through the Library’s connection. Parents must also be aware that even with filters in place, sexually explicit chat rooms and e-mail cannot be blocked. Minor patrons wishing to use the Internet at the Milan Public Library must have a signed Internet Consent Form. The parent or guardian is required to sign this form in person at the library. Internet access will be denied to all children less than 18 years of age who do not have an Internet Consent Form on file or who are not accompanied by a parent or guardian.

All users of Internet services are expected to comply with the following while using a Milan Public Library computer:

• A user shall not intentionally transmit or display text or graphics which is obscene, sexually explicit matter that is harmful to minors, or child sexually abusive material.
• A user will be mindful and respectful of the rights of others, particularly children, not to be inadvertently exposed to materials they may find personally unsuitable
• A user will respect the privacy of others; for example, users will not intentionally seek information on, obtain copies of, or modify files, other data, or passwords belonging to other users.
• A user will respect the legal protection provided by copyright and license to programs and data.
• Users may not attempt to circumvent user authentication or security of any host, network, or account. This includes, but is not limited to, accessing data not intended for the user, logging into a server or account the user in not expressly authorized to access, or probing the security of other networks.
• Internet access through the Milan Public Library system shall only be for personal, noncommercial purposes.
• Users are explicitly prohibited from sending unsolicited bulk mail messages (junk mail or spam). This includes, but is not limited to bulk-mailing of commercial advertising, informational announcements, and political tracts.
• Time limit for use on the Internet is one hour. Exceptions may be made on a case by case situation.
• One person per computer, an exception may be made only with staff permission. (Example: a student and parent).
• Downloading can only be done to patrons’ disks or USB device.
• Computers are shut down ten minutes before closing.
• Patrons shall pay for all copies they print.

In the event of a complaint or other indication of a violation of this policy, a user may be asked to exit a particular site, may have Internet privileges withdrawn, or may be prosecuted. Prior to the termination of access, a user shall have an opportunity to justify or correct the questioned activities.

If it comes to the attention of the Library that the Internet is being used for illegal or criminal activity of any kind, the Library will cooperate with law enforcement officials in any manner authorized by state or federal statute.

I understand and will abide by the Internet Policy of the Milan Public Library. I agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Milan Public Library against any and all liabilities, claims, demands, causes of action or suits of whatever nature (including attorney’s fees and litigation expenses) arising from the use of the Internet.