Internet Use Policy

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Policy Type: Operational

Policy Title: Internet Services

Policy Number: OP-10

Policy Approval Date: December 12, 2001 Date of Next Review: March 2026

Board Chair: Date:

The Brighton Public Library Board recognizes that internet access is an increasingly essential part of

participation in Canadian society and culture, and provides public access to the internet to fulfill its

commitment to equal access to information, services and library materials. The Brighton Public Library

(BPL) provides internet access to Library patrons in support of the current Strategic Plan.

Section 1: Library Responsibilities

1. BPL will proactively promote user education, media awareness and internet safety.

2. BPL is not responsible for the accuracy of the information available on the internet and encourages

Library patrons to use their judgment when assessing the accuracy or authority of information found

on the internet.

3. BPL recognizes that the diverse group of patrons it serves has a range of sensibilities and viewpoints.

Within existing space limitations and constraints, BPL will endeavor to minimize the chance of

accidental exposure to content that is being accessed by another patron. When necessary, BPL staff

will advise patrons that they are accessing the internet in a public location and that they are

required to be respectful of the rights and sensibilities of others.

4. BPL recognizes that children are entitled to access all information sources at the Library, including

the internet. BPL supports the right and responsibility of parents or legal guardians to determine,

monitor and guide their children’s use of Library materials and resources. BPL does not act in place

of or in the absence of a parent or legal guardian.

5. BPL does not limit access to internet content, nor does it monitor users’ internet activity.

Section 2: Patron Responsibilities

1. Patrons are responsible for determining the reliability, currency and accuracy of sites accessed and

information found using the internet.

2. Patrons are required to respect the rights of others when accessing the internet in Library space.

Users must be aware that computers and other devices are being used in public spaces. Some

content is age-inappropriate for children. Some content may be offensive, objectionable and/or

intimidating to other patrons or BPL staff or volunteers.

3. Patrons are responsible for respecting the privacy of other Library patrons.

4. Patrons are responsible for determining the legality of any sites they access. Patrons are subject to

federal, provincial and municipal legislation regulating internet use and must not use the internet

for illegal purposes including copyright violation, obscenity, child pornography and incitement of

hate. The use of BPL’s internet services for these and any other illegal purposes is prohibited.

5. The internet is not a secure medium and third parties may be able to obtain information about their

activities or themselves. Patrons are responsible for any fees, losses or damages that occur as a

result of any online actions they perform on the internet. BPL takes no responsibility for the security

and privacy of online transactions.

6. The use of peer-to-peer software is prohibited due to security issues and network degradation.

7. Patron files shall not be saved to BPL’s computers or devices. Files that are saved on the computer

will be removed. Users may store files on personal removable storage devices. Patrons must ensure

that such devices are virus-free.

8. Patrons are expected to treat Library computer equipment with respect. Patrons are not permitted

to alter, tamper with or damage BPL’s computer equipment or software configuration.

Section 3: Staff Responsibilities

1. Staff do not monitor or censor internet content.

2. Library staff is entrusted with ensuring that this policy is adhered to. Staff will advise patrons of

appropriate conduct as required and state rules and consequences of behaviour to patrons. Library

staff is authorized to use best judgment in ensuring that patrons adhere to this policy.

3. Staff has an obligation to provide internet use to patrons with minimal restrictions. Each patron is

eligible for a minimum of one hour of computer use before being asked to log off. When there are

patrons waiting for computer access, individuals will be asked to finish up their tasks and log off

within five minutes of a staff request, with those who have been on a computer the longest being

asked first.

Section 4: Consequences of Misuse of BPL Internet Service

1. BPL will take action in a situation where illegal activity occurs, and will contact the police.

2. Any person violating this policy risks suspension of Library privileges, exclusion from the Library for a

period of time and/or prosecution.

Section 5: Wireless Internet Access

1. Free wireless internet is available throughout the Library for access by patrons on their own devices.

Patrons accessing wireless internet service are bound by the terms of use in this policy.

2. BPL cannot guarantee the safety of traffic across its wireless network as it is not secure. The Library

does not assume any responsibility for the configuration, security or files on personal laptops or

mobile devices resulting from connection to the Library’s network.