Policies

Internet Acceptable Use Agreement
Adopted 10/07/96
Revised 04/14/97, 08/01/05

1. The Sullivan County Library offers Internet Access for the public. Parental consent or the presence of a parent or teacher is required for users under the age of 18. Users under the age of 12 are required to have the direct physical presence of a parent or guardian who has signed the acceptable use agreement.

2. The library cannot provide computer training for the public but does provide handouts highlighting basic Internet search techniques.

3. User recognizes that the primary purpose of on-line usage is to further educational and business pursuits.  Playing games is allowed if no user is waiting for a computer.

4. User recognizes that accessing material that is disturbing to other patrons through the library Internet connection constitutes unacceptable use.

5. User recognizes chat room access is not part of the public access program. Users will not be able to exchange messages with others on-line.

6. It is a felony offense in the state of Pennsylvania “to display or cause to display any explicit sexual material…on any…viewing screen in such manner that the display is visible…in any establishment where minors, as part of the general public, may be exposed to view all or any part of such materials.” (Title 18 PA Crime Code – Sect. 5903) Therefore, viewing of such materials in the library will not be permitted. Violation of this provision may result in the immediate termination of internet privileges.

7. User's access to and use of the system may be terminated for any perceived or suspected abuse of the above provisions.

8. The Federal Children’s Protection Act requires all libraries receiving federal funding to comply by filtering all internet access computers. Software is in place as required but library staff may disable or override the filter for any persons 18 and older upon request.