Internet access policy

Welcome to the Internet at the Hamilton Public Library! The privilege of using the Library’s computers to access the world of the Internet carries with it special obligations. Before using this service, please read the following Internet Access Policy.

Staff help and support for internet use

The staff does not have complete knowledge of all Internet resources. However, if time allows, the staff will assist patrons as much as possible.

Parental responsibility for children's access

Library staff cannot supervise or restrict material that children may select on the Internet. It is the policy of the Library that parents, guardians, and adult caregivers are responsible for deciding what library materials and resources, including Internet use, are appropriate for their minor children.

Our Library provides a variety of materials which represent many points of view on a wide range of topics selected with the community in mind. Libraries provide access to some printed, audio-visual, and electronic materials which some parents or legal guardians may deem inappropriate for their children.

Only a parent or guardian has the right to define what materials or information are consistent with personal and family beliefs and apply these beliefs to the use of the library’s resources.

Privacy and security

Users should be aware that the Internet is not a secure medium and that third parties may be able to obtain information regarding users’ activities. The Hamilton Public Library will not release information on the use of specific Internet resources by members of the public except as required by law.

Explanation of acceptable use

Patrons should view the use of the Library’s computers for Internet access in the same way as they view the use of the Library’s general collection, i.e. they are shared resources.

The Library reserves the right to set time limits or ask users to limit their time on the computer. The Library staff reserves the right to adjust computer time and scheduling as necessary.

The Hamilton Public Library prohibits illegal activities or accessing illegal materials while using the Internet.

Examples of such illegal activities include but are not limited to, harassment or stalking, libel, illegal commerce or solicitation, "hacking" or tampering with other computer systems, copyright violations, and accessing obscene materials, including downloading and/or printing child pornography.

Penalties for misuse of the internet

Failure to relinquish the computer at the proper time and engaging in illegal activities may subject an individual to the loss of Internet privileges.

An individual engaged in illegal activities will be warned by the Library staff to stop immediately. If required, the police may be notified.

Disclaimer

The Hamilton Public Library does not endorse or assume responsibility for any information found on the Internet, except for the content of the Library’s home page.

The Library cannot control the accuracy or the validity of the information or the presence of materials some may find offensive. Users need to evaluate the information found on the Internet just as with any other source such as newspapers, TV, etc.