Internet Safety Policy

Introduction

It is the policy of Mendocino County Library to: (a) prevent user access over its computer
network to, or transmission of, inappropriate material via Internet, electronic mail, or other
forms of direct electronic communications; (b) prevent unauthorized access and other unlawful
online activity; (c) prevent unauthorized online disclosure, use, or dissemination of personal
identification information of minors; and (d) comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act
[Pub. L. No. 106-554 and 47 USC 254(h)].

Definitions

Key terms are as defined in the Children’s Internet Protection Act.

Access to Inappropriate Material

To the extent practical, technology protection measures (or “Internet filters”) shall be used to
block or filter Internet, or other forms of electronic communications, access to inappropriate
information.

Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act, blocking shall be applied to
visual depictions of material deemed obscene or child pornography, or to any material deemed
harmful to minors.

Subject to staff supervision, technology protection measures may be disabled for adults or, in
the case of minors, minimized only for bona fide research or other lawful purposes.

Inappropriate Network Usage

To the extent practical, steps shall be taken to promote the safety and security of users of the
Mendocino County Library online computer network when using electronic mail, chat rooms,
instant messaging, and other forms of direct electronic communications.

Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act, prevention of inappropriate
network usage includes: (a) unauthorized access, including so-called ‘hacking,’ and other
unlawful activities; and (b) unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal
identification information regarding minors.

Education, Supervision and Monitoring

It shall be the responsibility of all members of the Library staff to educate, supervise and
monitor appropriate usage of the online computer network and access to the Internet in
accordance with this policy, the Children’s Internet Protection Act, the Neighborhood Children’s Internet Protection Act, and the Protecting Children in the 21st Century Act.

Procedures for the disabling or otherwise modifying any technology protection measures shall
be the responsibility of the Branch Manager or designated representatives.

Adoption

This Internet Safety Policy was adopted by the Mendocino County Board of Supervisors at a
public meeting, following normal public notice, on October 8, 2024.

Browse Internet Safety resources available online.