Internet Public Access Policy

To fulfill the Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives' (KDLA) mission of "Serving Kentucky's Need to Know," the department provides access to a broad range of information resources, including free access to the Internet for informational and educational use.

The Internet is a global electronic information infrastructure, a network of computer networks created and used by governments, businesses, organizations, educators, and individuals. As such it is an essential medium for obtaining and transmitting information of all types. Therefore, public access to the Internet is germane to the Library's mission.

However, the Internet is not subject to regulations that assure the content or accuracy of information. Users should critically evaluate sources for accuracy, completeness, and currency. For additional information on the nature and use of the Internet, patrons may consult sources found in the State Library's circulating collection or on the Internet.

Internet use by KDLA patrons is guided by this Internet Public Access Policy.

Patron Rights and Responsibilities

• KDLA Internet workstations are provided for informational and educational use.
• Patron use may be limited to thirty minutes per session.
  As with all Library resources, the Library affirms the right and responsibility of parents/guardians, NOT Library staff, to determine and monitor their minor children's use of the Internet. (Minors are defined in this policy as children and young people under the age of 18 years.)
• Parents are responsible for their minor children's use of the Library's resources and facilities. Children under age eighteen are to use the Internet only under the supervision of a parent or guardian.
• Printers are available for use at the Internet workstations.To avoid damage from viruses and other destructive computer programs, patrons are prohibited from using personal diskettes or CDs.
• The Library will have no liability for direct, indirect or consequential damages resulting from the use of information accessed through the Library's Internet service.
• Patrons are responsible for abiding by U.S. copyright law Title 17, U.S. Code which governs copying, displaying, or distribution copyrighted material, except by the concept of "fair use" Sect. 107.
• For additional information on copyright users can consult the following sites:
  Library of Congress Copyright Office, official copyright home page
  Benedict O'Mahoney Copyright Page, personal page with basic, easy to read information
  
• Patrons using KDLA Internet workstations may not...
  
  • save documents on the computer's hard drive
  • install or use their own software
  • attempt to alter software configurations
  • attempt to modify, abuse, or destroy the computer system in any way
• Patrons may not use KDLA Internet workstations to:
  • violate the law or encourage others to violate the law
  • transmit offensive or harassing messages
  • offer for sale or use any substance the possession or use of which is prohibited by law
  • view,transmit or download pornographic materials or materials that encourage others to violate the law
  • download or transmit confidential, trade secret information, or copyrighted materials (even if materials on the networks are not marked with the copyright symbol, users should assume that all materials are protected unless there is explicit permission on the materials to use them)
  • harass or violate the privacy of others or cause harm to others or damage to their property. Engaging in defamation (harming another's reputation by lies); uploading a worm, virus, "trojan horse," "time bomb" or other harmful form of programming or vandalism; participating in "hacking" activities or any form of
  • jeopardize the security of the computer network or other networks on the Internet. Disclosing or sharing the user's password with others; impersonating another user; using one's own software programs on the library's computers; altering the Library's computer settings;
  • damage or modify computer equipment or software for any illegal or criminal purpose that compromise the safety and security of minors when using e-mail, chat rooms and other forms of direct electronic communications
  • give others private information about one's self or others under the age of 18, including credit card numbers and social security numbers; arranging a face-to-face meeting with someone one has "met" on the computer network or Internet without a parent's permission.

KDLA Rights and Responsibilities

KDLA assumes responsibility only for the content and accuracy of the information it creates on its web site.

KDLA assumes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of all other information on the Internet.

KDLA does not monitor or censor information accessed by its patrons over the Internet, and therefore cannot be held responsible for its content or use.

KDLA will provide access to the Internet during regular public service hours in the State Library Reference Room and the Archives Research Room, network connections permitting. Dial up access is not available.

KDLA staff can provide basic help on Internet use and startup procedures. Staff will not be available for in-depth instruction or assistance.

KDLA reserves the right to suspend State Library rights and privileges to those who do not follow this Internet Public Access Policy.

Sanctions

Any user who fails to comply with this policy will result in suspension of State Library services and privileges. Unlawful activities will be dealt with seriously, including possible prosecution by appropriate local, state, or federal authorities.