Technology and Internet Access

I. The Hermiston Public Library offers public computer and internet access to our community. Privacy in a public place is not possible. Others may see what is displayed on computer monitors or have access to records of what someone has viewed on library computers or accessed via the library’s wireless service. 

II. Computer Services:

a. The library provides general use computers in its public access computer area.   These computers provide general office application software and Internet access.

b. The library does not control information found on the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its content.  Be aware that you may find objectionable or offensive material on the Internet.  

III. Public Access Computers:

a. Users sign in for access to library computers at the front desk by presenting their library card or a government issued photo ID, with DOB, to library staff.  

b. As a limited resource the amount of time a library computer is available is determined by library management.  Additional sessions may be granted by library staff if there is not a waiting list for computer use.  No more than two sessions per day are permitted.

c. The library does not filter the internet, therefore, minor children, aged 17 and under, require a parent or legal guardian’s permission. This permission is noted on the minor’s library card when the parent and minor are both present. 

d. Children of elementary school age or younger must be accompanied and directly supervised by an adult or child 16 years or older to use a public access computer.

IV. Wireless Internet Access:

a. The library provides wireless access to the Internet for those with equipment/devices to access it. The library works to be current, however, changing technology, funding, and other reasons may limit the library’s ability to provide preferred services. 

b. Staff will provide pertinent access information. Patrons are responsible for updating or changing settings on their equipment to access the library’s wireless service.  

V. User Agreement (Rules of Use)

a. Use of library computers or wireless service implies agreement with the following:

i. Abide by the library’s Patron Behavior Policy.

ii. Abide by the library’s Technology and Internet Access Policy.

iii. Comply with system security and stay within the designated programs available on library computer/device desktops, start menus, or always-on programs.  

iv. Not misrepresent yourself on the Internet or to library staff.

v. Do not damage, alter, or install equipment, systems, or software.

vi. No hacking, spamming, display/printing or sending any material that is obscene, libelous, threatening, harassing, or otherwise illegal as defined by current law.

vii. No deliberate downloading, installing or creating harmful programs.

viii. No violating intellectual property laws or software licensing agreements.

ix. No viewing material that could reasonable be considered pornography as determined by library staff.

x. Not hold the Hermiston Public Library and the City of Hermiston liable for any loss or damage to your data, software, or hardware, or for any damage or injury arising from invasion of privacy in your computer accounts, programs, or files.  The library assumes no responsibility for damages, direct or indirect, arising from connections to Internet services.

b. Failure to comply with the library’s Technology and Internet Access Policy may result in revocation of computer use privileges, wireless access privileges, or in loss of all library privileges, or possible legal action.

(Approved: November 28, 2018)