George H. & Laura E. Brown Library
Internet Use Policy
Rules for Internet Use
1) ALL USERS MUST HAVE A LIBRARY CARD AND PIN NUMBER.
2) All users must sign an INTERNET USE AGREEMENT.
a) Users under 18 years of age must have their parent or guardian sign the Agreement. Anyone between the ages of 16 and 18 years who is enrolled at a college or university may submit proof of enrollment in lieu of parental or guardian consent.
b) Users under the age of 6 must be supervised by a parent or guardian at all times.
3) INTERNET stations will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
4) Based on demand, the Library will set a time limit of 45 minutes on the use of INTERNET resources in order to maximize use.
5) Chatrooms will not be allowed at any time.
6) All overdue fines must be paid before internet access is permitted.
7) Failure to use the INTERNET stations appropriately and responsibly may result in revocations of INTERNET use privileges.
To register for INTERNET use, please read and complete the Internet Use Agreement and bring it to:
George H. and Laura E. Brown Library
122 Van Norden Street
Washington, NC 27889
(252) 946-4300
The INTERNET
The INTERNET, as an information resource, enables the Library to provide information beyond the confines of its own collection. In introducing the INTERNET as an information resource, Brown Library's goals are to enhance its existing collection in size and depth, and, as a public access agency, to give opportunity to any citizen who wishes to participate in navigating the INTERNET. The INTERNET allows access to ideas, information, and commentary from around the globe. Currently, however, it is an unregulated medium. As such, while it offers access to a wealth of material that is personally, professionally, and culturally enriching to individuals of all ages, it also enables access to some material that may be offensive and disturbing.
Library staff cannot control the availability of information links which often change rapidly and unpredictably. Not all sources on the INTERNET provide accurate, complete or current information. Users need to be good information consumers, questioning the validity of the information. All users of electronic information resources such as the INTERNET are expected to use these resources in a responsible manner, consistent with the educational and informational purposes for which they are provided, and to follow the rules and regulations of the organization providing these resources.
Since the INTERNET is a global electronic network, there is no state/city/county control of its users or content. The INTERNET and its available resources may contain material of a controversial nature. The Library cannot censor access to material or protect users from offensive information. Parents of minor children must assume responsibility for their children's use of the INTERNET.
Controlling specific information children and youth may locate on the INTERNET is difficult because the resources available are constantly changing. Just as libraries do not vouch for or endorse the viewpoints of all written material in their collections, they do not do so for electronic information. It is the responsibility of the user (or the parent, guardian, or caregiver) to determine what is appropriate. The Library upholds and affirms the right of each individual to have access to constitutionally-protected material. The Library also affirms the right and responsibility of parents to determine and monitor their children's use of Library materials and resources.
George H. and Laura E. Brown Library assume no responsibility or liability for any damages, direct or indirect, arising from use of its INTERNET access.