Fern Ridge Library provides computers and internet access for public use.  Such access is intended to expand the size and scope of the library collection, providing information resources from external networks.  These networks are unregulated, and may contain information that is inaccurate or out-of-date.  Fern Ridge Library has no control over Internet resources, nor does the library have complete knowledge of what is on the internet.  Individual users are responsible for determining the reliability of website content for themselves. To learn more about evaluating websites, click here (link goes to a site from UC Berkeley).

Computers in the Youth area have commercially available filtering software.  This software cannot block out all objectionable sites, and does sometimes block useful material, including sites that are suitable for children, teens, and adults. 

Patrons under the age of 18 must have parental permission for computer access.  Privilege can be granted to all computers, filtered computers only, or to none at all.  Minors must present their library card to staff before using the computers each time they come to the library.

Patrons may not use the internet for purposes which violate federal, state, or local laws.  Fern Ridge Library expressly disclaims any liability or responsibility resulting from providing access to its electronic information systems.  Use all computers in accordance with this policy and with the Fern Ridge Library Rules of Conduct.  Copies of these policies are available at the circulation desk.

The library has received funding from the federal Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) to purchase hotspots, chrome books, and Ipads.  Any ECF supported equipment and services can only be provided to patrons who declare they do not have access to the equipment or services sufficient to access the internet.  By borrowing such equipment and services, patrons affirm that they do not have access to said equipment or services.

 

Public Internet Computers

The following rules apply to all patrons and guest-pass users:

-Users are limited to 120 minutes per day.  A current and valid library card is required for computer access.  Individuals without a library card may request a Guest Pass log-in.  Guest Passes are not available to library card holders.  Guest Pass users that reside within the boundaries of the library district are strongly encouraged to sign up for a library card.

-Computer stations are limited to two people at all times.

-Files may be saved only to personal devices or recordable media.  Flash drives may be checked out at the circulation desk or may be available for purchase at the circulation desk (depending on availability.)

-Staff can assist with basic internet use, but may not always be available.

-Installation of software or altering existing software and hardware is prohibited.

-Misrepresenting yourself by access code or password is prohibited.  Using another person’s library card for the purpose of gaining additional time is prohibited.

-Printing fees are 10 cents for black and white pages, twenty five cents for color text, and fifty cents for pages with color graphics.

-Because the Fern Ridge Library is a public place, staff has the authority to end an Internet session that displays inappropriate material.

-Exceptions to these rules are at the discretion of the Library Director or a designated staff person.

 

Personal Laptop Computers

Fern Ridge Library provides wireless access for users with personal computers.  These users are respectfully asked to maintain acceptable internet use with regard to displaying content that may be offensive to others in a public setting (see above).

 

Consequences of violating Computer Use and Internet Access Policy

All violations will be noted on the patron’s account.  Such notice is only accessible by staff.

     First occurrence - Patron will be warned.

     Second occurrence - Loss of computer privilege for a period of 24 hours.

     Repeated occurrences -Loss of computer privilege for a minimum of one month.