Public Internet Access Policy and Disclaimer

To fulfill its mission of providing free and convenient access to information and ideas, the Hernando County Public Library System provides public Internet access. Using a false name, address or another’s card to access the Internet is prohibited by Hernando County Code (Ordinance No. 83-1). Visitors may request a guest pass to use the Internet. Long-term or frequent visitors may purchase a non-resident library card for $15.00 per year.

The Library System upholds and affirms the right and responsibility of parents or designated guardians to determine and monitor their children’s use of all library materials and resources. They are encouraged to personally accompany their children to the library and oversee their use of the Internet and other forms of electronic information. Minors who visit the Library System without parent or guardian are responsible for their own decisions and behaviors.

Users of Library System computing resources must comply with federal and state laws and county ordinances, Library System rules and policies, and the terms of applicable contracts including software licenses. Examples of applicable laws, rules and policies include the laws of libel, privacy, copyright, trademark, obscenity and child pornography, and harassment. Users may not disrupt or interfere with other computer or network users, services, or equipment. Users who engage in electronic communications with persons in other states or countries or other systems or networks may also be subject to the laws of those jurisdictions and the rules and policies of those other systems and networks.

Users must not use computing resources to gain unauthorized access to local or remote computers or to impair or damage the operations of HCPLS computers or networks, workstations or peripherals. Deliberate attempts to circumvent data protection or other security measures are not allowed. Misuse or abuses of Library System computers or Internet access will result in suspension of privileges. Unlawful actions will be reported to law enforcement.

The Internet offers access to local, national and international sources of information that may be personally, educationally and culturally enriching to individuals of all ages. Some information found on the Internet may in inaccurate, incomplete, dated or offensive to some individuals. Filtering software does not block all materials users might find offensive. Library patrons use the Internet at their own discretion. In choosing sources to link to its home page, the Library System follows professional materials selection guidelines. Beyond this, the Library System can not monitor or control information accessible through the Internet and is not responsible for all its content.

Patrons should be aware that the Internet is not a secure medium and that third parties may be able to obtain information regarding users’ activities. The Hernando County Public Library System maintains physical, electronic and procedural safeguards to protect patron information as much as possible. However, the Library System cannot guarantee patron privacy when using Internet resources.

Requests for information about a patron’s Internet use from law enforcement officials or any other outside agency must be referred to the Library Services Director.

Disclaimer

The availability of information via the Internet does not constitute endorsement of the content of that information by the Hernando County Public Library System of the Hernando County Board of County Commissioners. The Library System shall have no liability for direct, indirect or consequential damages related to the use of information accessed on the Internet from Library equipment.
Revised 2-26-14.