policies

The Internet is a global resource with a highly diverse user population and information content. The Library does not assume responsibility for the accuracy, quality, or timeliness of Internet information. It is the responsibility of the user to evaluate the viability and usefulness of Internet information critically.

The Internet terminals throughout the Library are provided equally to all patrons. The Library upholds and affirms the right of each individual to have access to constitutionally protected material. However, users need to be aware that obscenity and child pornography are not constitutionally protected. In accordance with 18 PA, C.S. Section 5903 minors are prohibited from accessing Internet and on-line sites that contain or make reference to explicit sexual materials. Parents or guardians are responsible for information and materials accessed by minors. While Library staff will work to provide a safe environment for children and uphold applicable laws, the librarian will not act in loco parentis (i.e. in the absence of parents). Library computers must not be used for fraudulent or unlawful purposes, including any activities prohibited under applicable federal, Pennsylvania, or local laws, including any activities in violation of 18 Pa.Cons.Stat. sec.5903.

Guidelines for Internet Use

Ø All users of the Internet must use this resource in a responsible and courteous manner. It must be shared and used as such to respect the rights of others and their opportunity to use the Internet at the Bethel Park Public Library.

Ø 2 hour time limit for computer use in the library. 1 hour time limit for computer use in the Children's Department.

Ø Computer users must use their own valid library card. Children may log on with a parents valid library card with parental approval.

Ø Card holders with fines exceeding $10.00 will not be granted computer access

Ø Patrons may be asked to show I.D.

Ø Use of EIN computers is on a first come, first serve basis. You may be requested to make the computer available to a waiting patron after 30 minutes.

Ø We reserve the right to limit computer use during peak hours.

Ø Printing is available on all terminals. Black and white Copies are 15¢ per page, Color copies are 50¢, payable at the front desk.

Ø To end your Internet session, return to the "Home" page by clicking on "home" on the toolbar. Do not shut down the computer.

Ø The Library staff will provide limited assistance to patrons accessing the Internet.

Ø NO chat rooms or instant messaging is permitted.

Ø Computers and Printers will be shut down 15 minutes before the Library closes.

Ø 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 on the Internet.

Ø The library assumes no liability for use of credit card by library patrons using the Internet.

Ø Patrons may not use personal software, alter, or attach equipment to the library's hardware. Patrons may not download information to the hard-drive. The library does sell computer disks at the Checkout Desk.

Ø Violators of these policies and regulations may lose some or all library privileges.

Ø The Bethel Park Library Board reserves the right to interpret this policy and to address issues that may arise not covered by this policy.

Parents or guardians, NOT the Library staff, are responsible for monitoring the content of Internet content to be viewed by minors.

The Bethel Park Public Library has filters on every public computer. The software being used is Netsweeper, the most full-featured product that has the most extensive controls over where you and your children can go online.

Two sites that provide information on how to protect your children online are:

www.getnetwise.org

www.safekids.com

Filtering software is no substitute for parental supervision.

General Behavior Policy

Adults and children are expected to display appropriate behavior while visiting the Library. All conduct and behavior should be conducive to maintaining a peaceful atmosphere in the Library for all patrons.

Our patrons have a right to expect our facility to be a clean and pleasant place for selecting materials, reading, researching, studying, writing and attending library sponsored programs and meetings.

Patrons shall be engaged in activities associated with the use of a public library while in the building. Persons not engaged in such activities shall be asked to leave the building.

These guidelines are intended to encourage behavior that supports the Library's mission of providing the best possible resources in a warm, welcoming environment. Behavior becomes unacceptable when it interferes with others, compromises the rights of others, causes damage to buildings or equipment or causes injury to oneself or others. Those willing to modify unacceptable behavior are always welcome to stay. However, those unable to comply will be asked to leave. If necessary, the authorities will be called. Parents or guardians are responsible for the conduct and safety of persons under their care.

Persons of any age with mental, physical or emotional disabilities which affect their ability to use the Library or render supervision otherwise necessary must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver at all times.

Examples of unacceptable Library behavior include:

Abandoning or leaving young children unattended (See Unattended Child Policy)
Running, chasing
Shouting, loud talking or conversation, arguing, crying, use of inappropriate language
Abuse or vandalism of Library materials, equipment or property.
Disruptive use of cell phones, headphones, radios, televisions or other electronic products
Unruly or offensive behavior
Verbal abuse, physical abuse or sexual harassment of library users or staff
Refusal to leave at closing
Selling or soliciting
Illegal activity of any sort

If a patron is creating a disturbance or causing problems in the Library, the staff has the authority or right to tell that person to the leave the Library. If that patron refuses to comply and continues to cause problems, the police will then be contacted to eject that patron from the Library.

Unattended Child Policy

The Bethel Park Public Library welcomes the use of its facility by children. Since the Library is open to the public, the Library requests that parents use good judgment by not leaving children unattended.

To encourage appropriate behavior parental cooperation is requested to observe the following:

Children under the age of eight must be directly supervised by a parent or responsible caregiver at all times while in the Library. Parents or caregivers must remain in the same area of the Library unless the child is attending a Library program, in which case the parent or caregiver must remain in the Library building.
Parents or caregivers cannot leave children under the age of eight unattended in the Children's department while using other parts of the Library.
Children eight and older may be left unattended providing they can behave appropriately and follow all Library rules and policies. Children are subject to the same rules of behavior as all patrons and the same consequences, including being asked to leave the Library.