MENDOCINO COUNTY LIBRARY

Internet Safety Policy

Internet Access and Technology Acceptable Use Policy

The Mendocino County Library provides free public access to the Internet with computers, WiFi, and Hotspots as part of its mission to deliver services and materials to meet the information needs of its customers. The Library also may have other technology such as 3-D printers and Chromebooks available for patron use.

• The Mendocino County Library upholds and affirms the right of everyone to have access to constitutionally protected materials. The Library also affirms the right and responsibility of parents and legal guardians to monitor their children’s use of Library materials and resources.
• The Library wishes to make the Internet and all computer resources available to anyone who respects the rights and property of others, and who abides by the Library's rules and procedures. Failure to appropriately consider the rights of others may lead to the loss of computer or library technology privileges.
• The Mendocino County Library offers filtered access to the Internet.
• The Library's workstations are in public areas. Since others may be involuntarily exposed to what is viewed, the Library asks that each user exercise good judgment and consideration of others. Users shall not use Library Internet and Technology in any manner that interferes with the use of the Library and/or Library resources by other patrons.
• The Library staff is available to facilitate use of the Internet and Technology and to answer questions or concerns.
• The Library has created home pages for Kids and Teens that provide content and links to other web sites that contain age-appropriate information.
• The Library does not provide e-mail accounts. However, customers may access free, web-based e-mail accounts through library Internet stations and Technology.
• The Library does not guarantee privacy or confidentiality for the use of the Library Internet.
  Mendocino County Library disclaims any warranty as to the quality or accuracy of electronic information via the Internet.
• The Mendocino County Library shall have no liability for any direct, indirect, or consequential damages related to the information contained therein or downloaded.
• The Library's Internet and Technology may not be used for any purpose that violates U.S., State, or local laws. Users must respect all copyright laws and licensing agreements pertaining to software files and other resources obtained via the Internet.
• Library Internet and Technology users may not attempt to alter or damage computer hardware or software. Software must not be installed or run from any drive. The Library does not allow the use of personal software to be installed on its equipment.
• Users may not attempt to reconfigure systems or software or in any way interfere withthe system set-up.
• Users may not use the network to make unauthorized entry or hack into othercomputational, informational, or communication services, or resources.
• Users may not invade the privacy of others or engage in any activity that is harassing,defamatory or threatening; or receive or display text or graphics which may reasonablybe construed as obscene as defined by law.
• All Library users are expected to use library resources, including the Internet andTechnology, in a responsible and courteous manner, consistent with the educationaland informational purposes for which the resources are provided.
• All Library users must abide by this Acceptable Use Policy, Library's Standards ofBehavior, and Internet Safety Policy. Please read those rules and familiarize yourselfwith their requirements. Violations may result in the loss of Internet use and/or Libraryprivileges.
• Illegal activities will be reported to the appropriate law enforcement authorities.
• Use of Library Internet and Technology, and off-site use of Technology includingHotspots must be integral, immediate, and proximate to the provision of library servicesto library patrons.

This Mendocino County Internet Access and Technology Acceptable Use Policy was adopted by the Mendocino County Board of Supervisors at a public meeting, following normal public notice, on October 22, 2024.