Public Computer & Internet Use Policy

The internet provides access to a wide range of materials and opinions from various points of view from around the world. However, not everything found on the internet is current, accurate, or complete. Some might find information available on the internet to be offensive or inappropriate. While the Oconomowoc Public Library is sensitive to concerns about internet content, no one, including the Library, can control the information available through the internet. The Library does not have filtering software installed on the internet. Each individual is responsible for their own appropriate use of the internet in the Library. Access to the internet is available to all patrons; however, this internet service may be restricted at any time for use not consistent with Library policy. When patrons use the Library’s public computers and internet service, they are agreeing to abide by this policy.

Library staff is available to assist patrons in their use of the internet, but may not be familiar with every application patrons might wish to use.  Due to scheduling constraints, there may not be a librarian available to help at all times. Because of the many different internet applications available, Library staff cannot provide complete technical support.

General Guidelines

  • Patrons may connect their personal devices to any available electrical power outlet provided the cord(s) do not create a hazard. Library staff shall have the authority to determine what constitutes a hazard. Patrons may not unplug Library equipment.
  • The Library is not responsible for any loss or damage to personal disks or storage devices.
  • Patrons are responsible for the consequences of any copyright infringement.
  • If a user prints, there will be a per-page charge.
  • Patrons must use headphones when using applications that require sound.

Internet Guidelines

  • Before connecting to the Library’s internet service and/or public computers, patrons must read and accept the terms of this policy, which are displayed onscreen.
  • While respecting patrons’ right to privacy whenever possible, staff have the right to monitor the use of the Library’s internet and computers to ensure compliance with Library policy.
  • No user may access the internet by use of a terminal reserved for accessing online Library catalogs.
    Inappropriate, illegal, or unacceptable use is prohibited and can result in loss of internet privileges, loss of Library privileges, and/or legal action.
  • The library’s internet access is unfiltered.
  • Parents/guardians of children under the age of 18 must assume full responsibility for their children’s use of the Library’s computers and internet service. The Library does not monitor and has no control over the information accessed through the internet and cannot be held responsible for its content. All Library resources, including internet access, are provided equally to all Library users.
  • The Library is not responsible for any financial loss that may occur while using the Library’s internet services. This includes, but is not limited to, loss due to improper use of online financial tools, personal information intercepted, and identity theft.

Wireless Network

  • The Library does not guarantee that all personal electronic devices will be able to connect to the wireless network. Response speed, bandwidth, and continuity of connection are not guaranteed.
  • Anti-virus and security protection are the responsibility of the patron. The patron understands the wireless internet connection is unsecured and open to everyone.
  • The Library reserves the right to disconnect any device and to deny patrons the use of wireless internet access if they fail to comply with any part of this policy.
  • Patrons using personal electronic devices may not connect to the Library’s computer network or to Library computers by means of a wire or cable.
  • Patrons may connect their wireless devices to any available electrical power outlet provided the cord(s) do not create a hazard. Library staff shall have the authority to determine what constitutes a hazard. Patrons may not unplug Library equipment.

Wired Network (Public Computers)

  • Children age 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult when using the Library’s public computers, to ensure proper use of the equipment.
  • Users must sign in with their own Library card number or sign in with a guest pass.
    • Children are not allowed to use a guest pass and must use their Library card to sign in.
  • Computer and internet use is offered in 60-minute sessions. Patrons may be granted additional time up to two hours, but this is not guaranteed. Library staff may grant exceptions to the two-hour limit in some circumstances. If there are patrons waiting to use a computer, the patron must abandon the use of the computer after his or her session.
  • Patrons using personal electronic devices may not connect to the Library’s computer network or to Library computers by means of a wire or cable.
  • Patrons may connect their wireless devices to any available electrical power outlet provided the cord(s) do not create a hazard. Library staff shall have the authority to determine what constitutes a hazard. Patrons may not unplug Library equipment.

Acceptable Use

The public computer and internet services at the Oconomowoc Public Library are intended to provide access to knowledge, information, and diversity of ideas. All users are expected to use this resource in a responsible manner consistent with the educational and informational purposes for which it is provided.

Unacceptable Use

Patrons may not use the public computer and internet services for any illegal or inappropriate purposes. The following activities are illegal or considered inappropriate and are therefore prohibited:

  • Viewing, sending, receiving, or displaying text or graphics that may be reasonably construed as obscene, offensive, or “harmful to children” as defined by Sec. 948.11 of the Wisconsin Statutes; which lack serious artistic, literary, political, educational, or scientific value. Transmitting and/or receiving of child pornography is a crime.
  • Failing to abide by federal, state, and municipal laws and regulations
  • Disregarding the privacy of others
  • Misrepresenting oneself
  • Attempting to modify or gain access to files, passwords, or data belonging to others; seeking unauthorized access to any computer system
  • Damaging or altering the setup or configuration of any software or hardware components, or any network or database
  • Making any changes to the setup or configuration of the Library’s internet resources
  • Interfering with or disturbing other Library patrons
  • Making unauthorized copies of copyrighted or licensed software or data. United States copyright law governs the reproduction, distribution, adaptation, public performance, and public display of copyrighted material. Responsibility for any possible copyright infringement lies solely with the user; the Library disclaims any responsibility or liability resulting thereof.

Consequences of Misuse of the Public Computers and/or Internet

Misuse or abuse of the Library’s public computer and internet services will result in the following:

  • 1st Offense: One-week suspension from computer and internet use at the Library.
  • 2nd Offense: One-month suspension from computer and internet use at the Library.
  • 3rd Offense: One-year expulsion from the Library and suspension of all Library services.
  • Serious and/or repeated violations of the Public Computer and Internet Use Policy may result in full suspension of Library services, expulsion from the Library, and/or criminal prosecution.

Adopted 5/9/2013
Revised 8/25/2015
Revised 5/9/2016
Revised 2/13/2020