Library users are offered 3 hours (180 minutes) of computer use per day. In some cases additional time may be requested when necessary. Additional time must be requested while still signed into an existing session and is subject to availability of computers.
For your own protection, all users are strongly encouraged to successfully log out of all websites and close all browsers before ending your computer session.
MIDDLETOWN PUBLIC LIBRARY COMPUTER USE POLICY – REVISED SEPTEMBER 2019
INTRODUCTION
All holders of a valid Ocean State Libraries card in good standing have access to Middletown Public Library (MPL) public computers. Laptops can be borrowed for in library use by adult cardholders. Parental approval is required for loans to adult cardholders who are 13-17 years of age.
Out of state residents, students working on school assignments and Rhode Island residents who do not wish to register for an Ocean State Libraries card may be issued a guest pass. Minors are welcomed to use the MPL computers subject to parental approval. Priority of use for the computers in the children’s room, in order of first to last: (1) children (2) parents/care givers with young children present (3) other adults. Adults and teens unaccompanied by children should use the available computers that are located in the adult area of the library.
The MPL offers free, high speed internet access in 3 hour sessions. Time can be extended subject to the availability of computers. Reservations can be made.
It is important to know that some websites may contain information that is not accurate. Trained, professional staff can assist with identifying websites that are not trustworthy.
The MPL benefits from funding for internet access from the Federal Communications Commission and so must comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA). CIPA was enacted by Congress in 2000. It imposes technology measures to block or filter access to websites that are harmful to minors. (https://www.fcc.gov/consumers/guides/childrens-internet-protection-act)
PRIVACY STATEMENT
It is important to log out of all websites and close all browsers before ending a computer session.
All information, including saved files and browsing history, is purged from MPL computers upon exiting the session.
The MPL’s public, high speed WIFI network is free, not password protected, and not secure. This means that information electronically sent or received may be intercepted by someone else.
ACCEPTABLE USE
The MPL’s computers are to be used appropriately and responsibly. Inappropriate use will result in a documented warning. A second occurrence will result in a suspension of one day. A third occurrence will result in a formal review and possible loss of privileges for thirty days. Headphones shall be used when visiting websites that project sound.
Examples of inappropriate use are, but not limited to:
Violating local, state or federal laws
Attempting to gain unauthorized access to computer systems or files
Tampering with computer hardware or software
Violating software license agreements and copyright laws
Violating another user’s privacy
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FAXING/SCANNING/PRINTING
We do not offer a fax machine; we do however offer a scanning/copy/print machine that allows you to email your scans.
It is free to scan and email your scans. Copies and prints are 10 cents for black and white, while color copies are 50 cents a page. Machines are located both in the adult and children’s areas, and both accept coins and $1 bills up to $5. Staff may not be able to make change for you, so please be sure to have the necessary money on hand to print or copy. Larger print jobs can be paid for manually at either the reference or circulation desks.
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WIRELESS
We offer free, open access WiFi for the public to use on their laptops and mobile devices. There is no password required.