Introduction
Integral to the mission of the Library is the provision of meeting the educational, informational and recreational needs of the diverse population served by the Swanton Public Library. The Library endeavors to develop collections, resources and services to meet these needs. It is within this context that the Swanton Public Library offers access to the Internet via the Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN).
Disclaimer
It is understood by users of OPLIN and the Internet that most of the information available is not generated by the Swanton Public Library or OPLIN. The Library through OPLIN provides access to reference databases of general and special periodical materials, readers' advisory, homework centers to assist students with research assignments, and legislative, historical and archival materials and information.
Information available through OPLIN and the Internet is not warranted by the Swanton Public Library or OPLIN to be accurate, authoritative, factual, or complete. The availability of networked information via the Swanton Public Library does not constitute any endorsement or ratification of the information. The Swanton Public Library and OPLIN is not responsible for the content of networked information available. The use of OPLIN and the Internet to engage in any activity which constitutes violation of local, state, and/or federal laws is strictly prohibited.
All users of this service agree to hold the Swanton Public Library and OPLIN harmless from any and all claims, losses, damages, obligations, or liabilities directly or indirectly relating to the use of OPLIN and the Internet, caused thereby or arising therefrom. In no event shall the Swanton Public Library or OPLIN have any liability for lost profits or for indirect, special, punitive or consequential damages or any liability to any third party, even if the Swanton Public Library or OPLIN is advised of the possibility of such damages.
Guidelines For Use
Library patrons assume all responsibility for access to Internet resources at the Library. Parents or legal guardians take the responsibility for minor children in the use of this resource. All people under the age of 18 must have parental permission on record with the library to use the OPLIN terminal. It is recommended that anyone under 18 years of age be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Children under age 10 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. To assist parents and/or legal guardians in their supervision of children in accessing the Internet, the Swanton Public Library encourages the reading of a pamphlet available at the Library from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children entitled Child Safety on the Information Highway.
Patrons wishing to use the OPLIN computers must first sign in at the circulation desk with a valid card.
Usage of computers is limited to 30 minutes unless no one else is waiting to use them.
To lessen the risk of spreading computer viruses, patrons may not use personal disks. Diskettes are available at the circulation desk for a $1.00 donation.
The Swanton Public Library is not responsible for damage to a patron's diskette, computer, or for any loss of data, damage, or liability that may occur from patron use of the Library's computers.
Printing charges will be assessed as follows: $.25 per sheet for standard and $.50 per sheet for color.
The Library's computers are to be used for educational, informational and recreational purposes only; not for unauthorized, illegal or unethical purposes. You may not send, receive or display test graphics which may reasonably be construed as obscene. Use of chat rooms is discouraged.
Respect the privacy of others by not misrepresenting yourself as another user; by attempting to modify or gain access to files, passwords, or data belonging to others; by not seeking unauthorized access to any computer system, or damaging or altering software components of any network database.
Misuse of Library's computers or Internet access will result in loss of computer privileges.
Wireless Access Use Policy
Swanton Public Library offers free wireless Internet access (WiFi) to patrons with wireless-enabled laptops of handheld devices during normal library hours. In addition to the use terms outlined in the Internet Public Use Policy, the following points apply:
* Users are responsible for configuration of their own equipment. Swanton Public Library employees will not provide assistance for configuration or troubleshooting.
* No printing is available for wireless Internet use.
* Audio output must be muted or directed to user provided personal headphones.
* WiFi is less secure than a wired connection. Users are responsible for understanding the risks. Swanton Public Library does not assure the security of data when using wireless Internet.
* Swanton Library will not be responsible for patron owned computer equipment. Wireless Internet users should be certain that their laptops and other devices are secure at all times. These items should never be left unattended in the Library, however briefly.
* Any activity that violates the Internet Public Use Policy for Library-owned Internet and computers is also prohibited on user-owned equipment connected to Library WiFi.
Library Staff Assistance
We will be glad to help in accessing OPLIN and the Internet, however, Library staff cannot provide in-depth training on use because of the time involved.