Use a Computer & Free Wi-Fi

The Stanwood Public Library has several computers available for public use for free, as well as, free internet access and wi-fi.

The internet, a global decentralized network of computers, provide access to information far beyond the library's own collection.  No individual, company, or government controls or monitors the internet.  While most information accessed can be valuable, the user may also find materials that are unreliable, personally offensive, or illegal under United States law.  Therefore, parents are responsible for their children's internet use at the library.  By taking responsibility for their use, whether at the library, or at home, parents can minimize any potential risk associated with online computer use.

Patrons of library computing resources must comply with federal and state laws, library rules and policies, and the terms of applicable contracts including software licences, while using library computer services. 

Patrons must not use the computing resources to gain unauthorized access to local or remote computers to impair or damage the operations of any computer, network, PC workstations, or peripherals.  This includes blocking communication lines and running, installing, or sharing ​​​​​​virus programs.  Deliberate attempts to circumvent data protection or other security measures are not allowed.

Patrons must not use computing resources to intrude upon the rights of others.  Patrons are not permitted to invade the privacy of other library patrons, harass library staff or patrons, damage or disrupt library computer resources, or send span using library computers.  

Patrons shall not use computing resources to access material that is obscene, child pornography, or harmful to minors.

Materials obtained or copied on the internet may be subject to laws that govern reproductions of copyrighted works.  A work protected by a copyright may not be copied without permissions of the copyright owner unless proposed use falls within the definition of Fair Use.

 

Ethical Use
There is information on the Internet that may be inappropriate to our library setting/public.  Library staff reserves the right to end an Internet session when such material displays on the screen.  The Internet and public access stations may ONLY be used for legal purposes.

Staff Assistance
Staff may assist the patron to access the Internet, answer basic questions, or help locate resources.  However, staff cannot provide in-depth training to patrons.  There are also Internet-related books in the library.

Priority of Use
The computers/Internet are available on a first come, first served basis.  Using the computers/internet for school, business or word processing will take priority over recreational use.

Time limit
The librarian may assess a 60 minute time limit on computer use per day if computers are in demand.  The computers may be used up to 10 minutes before closing time.  Patrons are expected to be conscientious of others waiting to use the computers/internet.  Patrons must sign in before use.

E-mail
The library does not offer e-mail accounts.  Patrons may sign up with an e-mail provider such as Hotmail, Gmail, or Yahoo to send and receive e-mail through a browser.

Privacy
Users are urged to respect the sensibilities of others when accessing information that may reasonably be offensive to someone else.  However, absolute privacy for patrons using electronic resources in the library cannot be guaranteed.  There exists a possibility of inadvertent viewing by other patrons, either by watching the user's screen, or because a user may leave the screen unattended.

Internet
The Stanwood Public Library has no control of the Internet and its resources, and assumes no responsibility for the quality, accuracy, or currency of any Internet resource.  Patrons should question the validity of some of the information found on the Internet.

Responsibility of user
Internet resources are provided equally to all patrons.  Children and adults have the same access to resources.  Minors must have proof of Internet training to use the computer without a parent or guardian's supervision.  As in book selection, it is the policy that parents or legal guardians must assume total responsibility for deciding what resources are appropriate for their children.  The Public Library, unlike schools, does not serve in loco parentis (in place of a parent).  Librarians cannot act in the place of parents in providing constant care and supervision of children as they explore the Internet.  The responsibility for what minors read or view on the Internet rests with parents or guardians.

Chat
Chat rooms are not allowed on the computers.  The library does allow instant messaging through providers such as MSN Messenger or Yahoo Messenger.

Printing
The printer is available to patrons.  A cost of $0.10 per page, for black and white, and $0.25 per page, for color, will be calculated for copies made.

Downloading
There will be absolutely no downloading or copying of any programs.  Any protocol or program not already installed on the Library computers is prohibited.  Patrons may not install or use personal software, or alter or attach any equipment to the library's hardware

MISUSE OR ABUSE OF THE COMPUTERS RESULT IN THE SUSPENSION OR TERMINATION OF COMPUTER PRIVILEGES.

PATRONS USING THE EQUIPMENT AGREE NOT TO MAKE ANY CHANGES TO THE SETUP OR CONFIGURATION TO THE SOFTWARE OR HARDWARE.

UNLAWFUL ACTIVITIES WILL BE DEALT WITH IN A SERIOUS AND APPROPRIATE MANNER.