Internet Use Policy

At the Lackawanna County Children's Library

Scranton Public Library

Internet Use Policy

Scranton Public Library provides public access to the Internet via a broadband connection

Access to this network is free to:

• Any member in good standing of the Lackawanna County Library System (LCLS) aged 12 or older;

• Any member in good standing under the age of 12 accompanied by a parent or legal

guardian; {Note: Special access policies apply to juveniles not accompanied by a

parent or guardian. In the case of juveniles under 12, use is limited to the

workstations in the Children’s Library – not including those in the Computer Lab.

• Any purchaser of a non-resident LCLS card;

• Any holder of a valid library card from another Pennsylvania library that participates

in the Access Pennsylvania Statewide Library Card program; and,

• Any holder of a valid "Net Only" card.

In accordance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act, the library employs filtering

technology that blocks or filters Internet access to visual depictions that are--

• Obscene, as that term is defined in section 1460 of title 18, United States Code;

• Child pornography, as that term is defined in section 2256 of title 18, United States Code;

• Or harmful to minors. The library also reserves the right to filter web sites for reasons of computer

security and bandwidth conservation.

Users are reminded that filters are not 100% effective and may not filter images that should

be blocked or may block images that should not be blocked. Per CIPA, an adult user (17 or

older) can request that the filter be disabled for bona fide research or other lawful purpose. Conversely,

library staff may, at their discretion; request that the patron exit an inappropriate site that

is not filtered.

Library staff will assist users in getting connected to the Internet, but searching for specific

materials and information is the user’s responsibility. The Library provides free classes in

the use of the Internet for those who are interested. A listing of times and availability is

published monthly. Call 348-3000, ext. 3038, for more information.

Printing is available, subject to fees and limitations established by the library. Users are

reminded that material on the Internet may be subject to the copyright law of the

United States (U.S. Code; Title 17). See NOTICE posted at all print stations.

The following restrictions apply to all users who access the Internet over the Library’s

network:

• Users may not make unauthorized disclosure of, use of, or dissemination of a minor’s

personal information by means of the Internet, e-mail, or any other electronic

technology. Minors must have the authorization of their parents or guardians to

disclose their own personal information.

• Users must be careful not to expose themselves to dangerous situations. Users must

be cautious when using e-mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, discussion groups,

newsgroups, game rooms, and all other forms of communications.

• Attempts to alter workstation or network settings or defeat Library security

programs, the use of a false or stolen library card number, “hacking,” and other

unlawful activities will be viewed as a serious matter and may result in the loss of

access privileges on a temporary or permanent basis.

The Library reserves the right to expand or change the list of prohibited uses without notice.

While there is much of value on the Internet, users are reminded that no one regulates the

Internet and its content. Consequently, the Library cannot guarantee the accuracy of the

information found. Users are also cautioned that they may encounter material that is

offensive. The Library assumes no responsibility for damages, direct or indirect, arising from

use of this service.

Use of the Library’s Internet service constitutes acceptance by the user of all pertinent

Library rules, regulations, and policies.

Adopted by Scranton Public Library Board of Trustees on June 27, 2002.

Amended by the Scranton Public Library Board of Trustees on March 25, 2010.