INTERNET USE - PROCEDURES

Please note the following procedures for using the Internet terminals at the Squamish public library.

1. TIME LIMITS are sixty (60) minutes per session per day at the regular terminals.  You must sign in at the front desk before sitting at a terminal or you may have to forfeit your turn.

   The express terminal has a time limit of fifteen (15 minutes) and the sign-up sheet is beside the terminal.

   Only two (2) people maximum are allowed to work at any one station at a time.

2. APPOINTMENTS may be made for a session on the computers. You can do this by phone or in person when the library is open to the public.

3. At the end of your 60 minutes, PLEASE RELINQUISH THE COMPUTER PROMPTLY. It is unfair to use the next person's time, so please plan to finish up what you are doing before your time is up. If you are sending email make sure to send the message 5 - 10 minutes before your time is up. A lot of the web-based programs are slow and it may take a while for the message to be sent.

4. There are two (2) print options available.  One is black and white (b/w) for $0.25 per page the other is colour for $2.00 per page.  The printer holds your items in queue for 90 minutes so there is no need to print during your computer time.

INTERNET USE - POLICY

Internet Use

1.    Disclaimer of Responsibility  

The Squamish Public Library does not monitor and has no control over the information accessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its content.  The Internet may contain inaccurate material or material of a controversial nature.  The Squamish Public Library cannot censor access to material nor protect users from inaccurate or offensive information.  Parents of children under the age of 16 must assume responsibility for their children’s use of the Internet.

2.    Misuse

Anyone misusing or damaging the computer, reprogramming the library’s computers, tampering with the equipment or software or using the Internet for illegal or unethical purposes will have their Internet access privileges suspended, may be prosecuted and will be financially liable for any damage to the equipment.  The Internet access computers are located in public areas which must be shared by library users of all ages, backgrounds and sensibilities.  Individuals are asked to be respectful when accessing potentially offensive information and images.  The Library reserves the right to ask individuals to discontinue the display of information and images which cause a disruption.

3.    We provide Internet Access

       3.1  Access to children

       The Squamish Public Library expects parents and/or guardians to    assume responsibility for their children’s use of online services and encourages parents to explore the Internet and the World Wide Web with their children at the Library.

       3.2  Electronic mail

       The Squamish Public Library is committed to providing free access to e-mail. However, time limits may be established for this use.

       3.3.  Registration

       All Internet users must register with the Squamish Public Library and must read the brochure on Internet policy before accessing the Internet.

       3.4.  Availability

       The Internet computers are available during the hours that the library is open to the public.  

       3.5  Booking and use procedures

       Booking and use procedures will be established and published.

4.    Software

Patrons may not use their own software programs on the Library computers.  This will help prevent computer viruses that are common on public computers. The Squamish Public Library will allow downloading of programs on library purchased floppy disc. (down loading is no longer accessible as of June 2003)

5.    Security

WARNING:  Although the library uses a virus checker on the Internet Access computers, this may not completely protect against the chance of getting a virus. The Squamish Public Library is not responsible for damage to a patron’s disk or computer or for any loss of data, damage or liability that may occur from patron use of the library’s computers.

6.    Staff Help

Staff will assist in initially signing on to the Internet and will instruct on Internet use as time provides.  Because of library scheduling, trained staff will not always be available for help.