All library users are expected to abide by their local library’s Rules of Behavior. Illegal use of the library Internet services and computer stations is prohibited. By using library computers and/or Internet services, library users agree that staff has the authority to make final determinations regarding rule infractions. The use of the library's computer workstations and Internet services is a privilege.
The following activities could be considered cause for suspension of computer and/or Internet privileges or cause for trespass:
- using equipment and/or Internet service in the library to access, disseminate or exhibit material that is obscene, child pornography, or harmful to minors as defined by Minnesota state law (see statutes below);
- placing or viewing unlawful information or images on the system;
- altering or placing files or programs on the library's computers;
- sending any files or portions of files likely to result in damage to the recipient's databases or networks or the library's databases or networks;
- sending unsolicited spam, "chain letters" or "broadcast" messages;
- violating copyright or licensing agreements;
- using another ’s library card or fraudulently using duplicate library cards or guest passes for computer access;
- circumventing computer management software or security measures;
- causing excessive congestion of the network or interfering with the computer use of other library users;
- vandalizing or damaging library equipment.
In compliance with the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA), software filters have been placed on all computer stations with Internet access. Internet users 17 or older may request that staff remove the filter when using the computer stations to provide access for bona fide research or other lawful purposes. Library users who obtain unfiltered Internet access are not excused from any provisions or restrictions of this policy.
It is essential that each user of Internet and computer services recognize the responsibilities that stem from having access to vast services, sites, people and quantities of uncensored information. Users are reminded to be considerate of others when viewing material. GRRL cannot fully protect library users from encountering images or ideas that may be considered controversial. Not all sources on the Internet provide accurate, complete or current information. Users need to analyze information on the Internet with the same or greater scrutiny that they apply to other sources of information.
GRRL recognizes and affirms the rights and responsibilities of parents/guardians/caregivers to control the use of library materials and resources by their own children. The Internet is an unregulated medium. GRRL cannot guarantee restriction of access to sites by minors. It is up to the parent/guardian/caregiver to monitor their own children regarding their Internet and computer use. The library is committed to making reasonable efforts within constitutional limits to prevent minors from viewing materials that could be deemed harmful.
GRRL recognizes library users’ rights to privacy and confidentiality in accordance with the Minnesota Data Practices Act. GRRL avoids maintaining records that could compromise user privacy. Library users must be aware, however, that personal identification information should only be shared with caution. Parents/guardians/caregivers should discuss with minors the dangers of relaying personal facts over the Internet.
The USA PATRIOT ACT (US Statute 50 U.S.C. Sec 206, 214-220) overrides state law related to privacy and library use. If GRRL receives a valid order or warrant under these provisions, staff must provide anything requested by that order. This may include computer use records. Section 215 requires that the library not inform library users about these specific warrants.
13.40 (Minnesota Data Practices Act)
134.50 (Internet access, libraries)
617.241 (Obscene material)
617.246 (Child Pornography)
617.292 (Materials harmful to minors)
U.S. Public Law 106-554 TitleXVII, the Children’s Internet Protection Act