Policies

Purpose or Intent

The Ivanhoe Public Library provides free use of computers and access to the Internet to all users, with the understanding that it is the individual user’s responsibility to demonstrate judgment, respect for others, and the appropriate conduct while using Public Library resources. The purpose of the Computer and Internet Use Policy is to insure the best use of computers and access to the Internet by the greatest number of people.

Internet Use Guidelines

Library computers may not be used to view sexually explicit material, illegal drug-related, gang related, hate group related or violent materials.  Users are not allowed to change the settings and configuration. Users may not use non-library software or save anything to the hardware of the computer without permission from the head librarian. Users are financially responsible for any damage to the Library’s equipment, hardware or software. The Library’s Rules of Behavior on Library Premises policy applies to the behavior of patrons using library equipment and resources.  Failure to follow this policy could result in revocation of library privileges. Library employees are authorized to take prompt and appropriate actions to enforce the Rules of Conduct, and/or prohibit use by persons who fail to comply with the Internet Acceptable Use Policy as stated or implied herein.  

Time Limits

Computers are available on a first come basis during regular library hours. Use of the computer is limited to a single one hour session, and may be limited to only once per day. If no one else is waiting to use a computer, you may continue until it is needed for another person. Extended use of a computer workstation is up to the discretion of the library staff on duty. 

Filters

In compliance with Minnesota and Federal obscenity laws, the Library does filter Internet access on Library-owned computers and the wireless points using a personal device. Filtering software works to block access to information and materials that are child pornography or considered obscene or harmful to minors. The Library does not guarantee that such software will block all material under these categories; likewise, such information and websites that do not fall under these categories may inadvertently be blocked. Customers may request the staff unblock a site if this happens. 

Privacy

The library avoids collecting or maintaining records that could compromise the privacy of patrons. There is no electronic tracking of computer use that would enable the library to determine who users are or what they did on library computers after logging off. Users must also exercise caution when using the Internet to avoid unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of personal, identifiable information. Users handling financial transactions or other activities that require confidentiality do so at their own risk. The Internet is not a private environment and security of electronic communication cannot be guaranteed.  

Users are encouraged to respect the sensibilities of others when accessing information that may reasonably be offensive to someone else. Absolute privacy for people using electronic resources in the library cannot be guaranteed. 

Wireless Internet Access 

The Computer and Internet Use Policy applies to any laptop, table or cell phone, used to access the Internet through the library’s Wi-Fi connection. As a result, your Internet connection will be filtered and prohibited web sites will be blocked. Users are responsible for making sure their computers have the correct settings and necessary hardware. Library staff cannot assist users in configuring their equipment or troubleshooting problems. Library staff will provide limited instruction for access. The library cannot guarantee that users’ hardware will work with the library’s wireless connection. 

Each user is responsible for complying with copyright law and adhering to software licensing agreements, as well as all Minnesota and Federal laws including, but not limited to, those concerning hacking, fraud, privacy, or obscenity. U.S. copyright law (Title 17, U.S. Code) prohibits the unauthorized reproduction or distribution of copyrighted materials, except as permitted by  principles or “fair use.” All responsibility, or consequences of disregarding copyright laws or licensing agreements and infringements,  lies with the user; the Library expressly disclaims any liability or responsibility resulting from such violations.

Disclaimer

The Internet and its available resources contain a wide variety of material and opinions from varied points of view. Users need to be good information consumers, questioning the validity of the information. Not all sources on the Internet provide accurate, complete or current information. It is the responsibility of the user to make individual choices and decisions when using the Internet. Users may encounter material that could be considered inappropriate. Parents of minor children assume responsibility for their children’s use of the Internet through the Library’s connection. The Library expressly disclaims any liability or responsibilities arising from access to or use of information obtained through its electronic information systems or any consequences thereof. Laptops and other devices should never be left unattended in the library. The library assumes no responsibility for damage, theft or loss of any kind to a user’s equipment, software, or data files. 

The Ivanhoe Public Library values the support and cooperation of all its visitors. Library customers have the right to expect friendly and competent library service provided in a safe and inviting atmosphere. Library staff has the right to provide library services without fear of abuse, or threatening behavior from people using the library or library property. To achieve this goal, everyone is expected to act in an appropriate manner that will not disturb others and interrupt library service. Any persons not abiding by the rules of conduct may be asked to leave the library premises. If they do not leave upon request, the proper authorities will be contacted. The library may deny service to any patron who violates the rules and regulations of the library, on recommendation from the staff.

No person(s) shall engage in any excessive behavior or actions that disturb or interfere with library patrons or employees of the library, including but not limited to the following:

1. Engage in disruptive behavior that unreasonably disturbs others or interferes with library operations and services including, but not limited to:

a. Speaking in a loud voice.
b. Using personal equipment, such as cell phones or laptops, that is disruptive,
c. Running or horseplay,
d. Fighting.
e. Excessive noise.

2. Willfully annoy, harass or threaten another person.

a. Use obscene, abusive or racially charged language.
b. Convey threats of any kind of physical force or harm,
c. Engage in sexual misconduct.
d. Stalk, stare, or invade personal space.

3. Being under the influence of alcohol/illegal drugs, and selling using or possessing alcohol/illegal drugs on library grounds.

4. Sleep or loiter without using library services.

5. Deface, attempt to steal or destroy library property.

6. Enter the library barefoot, without a shirt, or being otherwise attired so as to be disruptive to the library environment.

7. Enter the library with animals or vehicle, except by required by persons of disabilities.

8. Leave unattended persons in the library who seek or need personal assistance for reasons other than library related services, and where staff has a reasonable basis to be concerned for the safety of the unattended person.

9. Fail to observe Internet Use Policy Guidelines Policy.

10. Misusing restroom, including bathing, damaging soap/towel dispensers, inappropriate use of toilets and sinks.

Library Staff first warns anyone violating these rules. If the conduct continues the offender will be ordered to leave the premises. Staff members at their discretion will expel patrons without a warning in situations of serious, threatening, or willfully malicious behavior. Failure to observe these rules may lead to revocation of library privileges, including the right to visit the building and grounds. Repeat offenders or persons ordered from the premises who do not comply may be subject to arrest and prosecution for trespassing. Anyone wishing to appeal his or her exclusion may submit an appeal in writing to the Library Director.

Especially for Children

Children are an important part of our library. Our staff encourages children of all ages to visit and use the library and our programs. Children (and parents) must respect the rights of other library patrons. Parents and caregivers are ultimately responsible for the supervision, behavior, and damages incurred by their children. Library staff are not babysitters and despite our best effort, public places may not always be safe places for unsupervised children.

To insure a positive library experience, everyone is expected to act in a manner that will not disturb others, interrupt library services or interfere with the use of the library by others.

1. The supervision of children under the age of nine is strongly encouraged by a responsible teen or adult.

2. Please make arrangements to pick children up before the library closes. Attempts will be made to call parents of family members to pick up children left unattended at the library or on library property after closing. In the case where no family member is found local authorities will be called to arrange transportation and care. Under no circumstances will library staff transport children home or to other destinations.

3. Children who are being disruptive will be asked by staff to refrain from that behavior includes, but is not limited to, running, making distracting noises, bullying other children, using offensive language, fighting or refusing to follow library procedures. If the disruptive behavior continues:

a. Staff will inform the parent/guardian if he is the building of the library’s behavior policy and that their child’s behavior is disrupting others. If it continues then the child will be asked to leave.

b. If the child is unattended, he will be told of the library behavior policy. If he continues to be disruptive he will be asked to leave the library property. Staff will obtain the child’s name and will either call the parent/guardian to pick up the child or have the child call the parent/guardian to be picked up if he requires transportation. If staff is unable to contact the family the police may be called for assistance.

c. A letter will be sent to the parent/guardian of all disruptive or unsupervised children explaining the library’s policy.