The Hampton Falls Free Library believes in open access to information and is dedicated to providing education, information, recreation and inspiration to the community. It subscribes to and supports the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights and its interpretations including the Freedom to Read and the Diversity in Collection Development statements.

The Internet is a global network of information accessible with a computer. It provides access to information and resources outside the town of Hampton Falls. This access is intended to provide yet another source of information to the citizens of Hampton Falls. Internet access in the Library is a privilege and requires that individual users act responsibly, obeying all local, state and federal laws and treating library materials and equipment in a responsible manner. Failure to obey library policies and procedures will result in loss of Internet privileges.

The Library does not monitor and has no control over the information accessed through the Internet. Not all resources on the Internet provide accurate, authoritative, complete or current information. Because of the open nature of the Internet, there may be areas deemed inappropriate. All patrons use the Internet at their own risk and are cautioned to use good judgment in doing so. Librarians will offer guidance and suggestions as to the most successful use of the Internet but cannot be held responsible for any information found on the Internet.

The Hampton Falls Free Library encourages parents to guide their children’s Internet experiences, in the same manner as they guide their children’s television viewing and their reading materials. Parents are expected to monitor and supervise their children’s Internet use. They are responsible for their own children’s access to the Internet.

Procedures

1. The Hampton Falls Free Library offers internet access free of charge to any valid cardholder regardless of age who uses these facilities.  Parents must sign a consent form for children under the age of 18.  Children under seven must be accompanied by a parent.
2. Patrons may reserve a half hour at a time on the computer by either calling on the phone or coming into the library.  If, after this time, no one is waiting ot use the computer, patrons may continue until someone wants to use it.

Guidelines for Use

1. Users displaying objectionable material on the screen or playing objectionable sounds will be asked to exit their program, as this would constitute inappropriate use of a public resource.
2. The Library Staff has the right to discontinue computer privileges for anyone not following Library policy
3. Users must observe all existing copyright laws, patent protection and licensing agreements.
4. Users are prohibited from loading their own software or downloading software from the internet.
5. Users who damage software or hardware are liable for its repair or replacement.
6. The library assumes no responsibility, direct or indirect, arising from the use of its equipment or its internet connection.

Adopted 1/12/1999