INTERNET POLICY FOR PATRONS   

The library now offers Internet access for the public.  Our workstation will allow users to utilize information resources from the World Wide Web.  The library's mission in providing this service is to extend our service beyond our doors.  In order to provide this valuable service, patrons must demonstrate adequate computer skills and agree to follow the policy guidelines and abide by the acceptable use policy. In addition, due to the controversial nature of some Internet sites, a parent or legal guardian must grant permission for any child under the age of 18 to use the workstation. 

POLICY GUIDELINES 

To maximize Internet availability, and to insure fair accessibility for all, please follow these rules and procedures. 

1.     When signing up to use an Internet Station for the first time do the following:  Read these guidelines.  If you are under the age of 18, a parent or guardian must sign our Internet Access Application Form in person and present it to our Circulation Desk.

 2.    You must sign in each time you use the Internet Station.

 3.    Library staff will instruct patrons in how to logon and log off, and other basic         procedures of our particular Internet System.  Staff cannot provide further                    instruction or perform searches for patrons.

 4.    The library does not offer direct electronic mail (email) at this time. 

 5.    Patrons may print information from the Internet workstation screen at the cost  of 10 cents per page. 

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Our Mission Statement 

The Findlay-Hancock County Public Library is committed to providing print and non-print materials, facilities, services, and programs to serve the informational, recreational and educational needs of citizens of all ages and backgrounds residing in the cities, villages, and areas of Hancock County. 

ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY

The Library's OPLIN computer's accesses the Internet which is a global entity with a highly diverse user population. and Library patrons use it at their own risk.  As with other library materials, it is the patron or the parent or legal guardian of minor children who assumes responsibility for supervising access to Internet resources in the Library.
The OPLIN computers is normally available, subject to periodic maintenance, during library hours.      

The OPLIN computers will be used for educational, informational, and recreational purposes only, not for unauthorized, illegal or unethical purposes.  You may not send, receive or display text or graphics which may reasonably be construed as obscene. 

Respect the privacy of others by not misrepresenting yourself as another user; by not attempting to modify or gain access to files, passwords, or data belonging to others; by not seeking unauthorized access to any computer system, or damaging or altering software components of any network or database. 

You may not always be able to go to the places on the Internet you want to visit.  The reason may be:  too many visitors using the host computer, the database or resources is limited to a particular institution; the host computer has a different address or has closed down; or the Library's OPLIN connection is temporarily unavailable due to technical difficulties.

Misuse of the Library's OPLIN computers or Internet access will result in loss of Internet privileges. 

The responsibility for resolution of problems related to the invasion of the user's privacy or loss of data rests with the user.  The library assumes no liability for loss or damage to the user's data for any damage or injury arising from invasion of the user's privacy.  Violators of computer usage policy will may lose library privileges. 

Ultimately, Findlay-Hancock County Public Library takes no responsibility for the veracity of the accessed material.  Not all sources on the Internet provide accurate, complete or current information. 

All users of this service agree to hold the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library and OPLIN harmless from any claims losses, damages, obligations or liabilities, directly or indirectly relating to use of OPLIN and the Internet, caused thereby or arising there from.  In no event shall the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library or OPLIN have any liability for lost profits or for indirect, special, punitive, or consequential damages or any liability to any third party, even if the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library or OPLIN is advised of the possibility of such damages. 

  Please be advised that financial information transmitted over the Internet may not be secure. The library now offers Internet access for the public. Our workstation will allow users to utilize information resources from the World Wide Web. The library's mission in providing this service is to enhance our reference services. In order to provide this valuable service, patrons must demonstrate adequate computer skills and agree to follow the policy guidelines outlined below. In addition, due to the controversial nature of some Internet sites, a parent or guardian must grant permission for any child under the age of 18 to use the workstation.