Guidelines for Computer and Internet Use

COMPUTER & INTERNET USE

In the face of an enormous demand for Internet access, the Library asks customers to abide by the following Guidelines. The Library seeks to allow as many customers as possible an opportunity to use this free service, and to insure that every customer's experience is a positive one.

  1. The library Code of Conduct applies to use of the Internet workstations. As stated in the Code of Conduct, "Any unlawful or disruptive activity is prohibited on library property and may be subject to appropriate and necessary action, ....harassment of library staff or customers is prohibited on library property." Customers whose behavior or action at the Internet stations constitutes a nuisance to others may be asked to end their Internet session or leave the library.

  2. The Library does not accept advance reservations for a specific time for the Internet stations. They are available on a first come, first served basis. Signing in to use an Internet station is required. Time limits per session are enforced if other customers are waiting.

  3. There will be a charge for printing from the Internet in accordance with the current Fines and Fees Schedule.

  4. Destruction of library materials or equipment is prohibited. Any alteration of existing hardware or software configurations or malicious damage to library equipment or software is strictly prohibited and may result in loss of privileges and/or expulsion from the library.

  5. Internet use is subject to all applicable laws. Illegal use of Library Internet stations may subject the user to prosecution by local, state or federal authorities.

  6. The Library and its staff are not liable for any damage to personal equipment and files resulting from use of Library workstations.

  7. If problems are encountered during an Internet session, a library staff member should be notified immediately. Customers should not turn off the equipment or attempt to correct any equipment problem.

  8. In libraries with separate, designated children's areas, the computers located in these areas are reserved for use by children and their caregivers. In libraries with separate, designated teen areas, the computers located in these areas are reserved for use by teens. Adults are expected to use the computers in adult areas of the library. To the extent possible, customers should use the computers in the areas reserved for their use. Exceptions may be made in order for all customers to have computer access in a timely manner.
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EXTERNAL DEVICES ON PUBLIC COMPUTERS AT JPL

With the growing portability of technology in today’s world, use and access to many data storage and peripheral devices becomes an important part of completing one’s activities. Although computer users may not save their data on the hard drives of the Jacksonville Public Library computers, they may download to their own storage devices on any public workstation. Such devices include floppy disks, ZIP disks, flash/jump drives (USB keys), etc. Guidelines for usage of these devices:

Floppy/zip disks
The Library allows usage of normal 3.5” floppy disks in its public computers. Disks are not sold in the library. The library is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged disks. Zip drives and disks are not provided, nor supported.
CD-ROMs/-RWs
The Library does allow usage of CD-ROMs (Read Only Memory) but NOT CD-RWs (Readable/Writable CDs) in its public computers. Discs are not supplied for public usage. Discs are not sold in the library. The library is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged discs.
Flash/ jump drives (USB keys)
The Library allows usage of USB keys in its public computers. Also called flash or "jump" drives, these can be purchased at many stores. Make sure the drive purchased requires no device drivers or special software to be installed for use with Windows 2000/XP. View additional help with USB drives.
USB Ports
Connecting other types of devices to the computer using the USB ports is not recommended. The Library is not responsible for any damage, loss or destruction of any personal device connected by customers. View additional help with USB drives.

DISCLAIMER

The Internet provides electronic access to many valuable local, national and international sources of information. However:

  • The Internet is not subject to any form of regulation and therefore it also provides access to sites that some customers may find offensive, controversial, inaccurate or unverified.
  • The Library assumes no responsibility for damages, direct or indirect, arising from the use of its computers and network facilities.

In addition, it is the responsibility of the customer to choose and evaluate the content and accuracy of the sources accessed on the Internet. There are millions of World Wide websites and sites change daily. The Internet provides access to sites that some customers may find offensive or controversial. The information may also be out of date, inaccurate, unreliable or incomplete. Customers need to be discriminating information consumers and exercise good judgment and discretion in the use of the Internet information sources.

The Library does not control information on the Internet and cannot be held responsible for content or availability of information. Books and periodicals about the Internet are available in the Library. While library reference staff cannot offer advanced training in office applications and in-depth Internet skills, workshops focusing on these skills are occasionally offered at various library locations. Please see our Programs, News & Events page for current workshop offerings. Reference staff are available to answer basic questions and to offer searching suggestions.

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