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Internet Use Guidelines & Procedures

Purpose:
The Library of Michigan provides access to a broad range of information resources, including those available through the Internet. Access to the Internet enables the Library of Michigan to greatly expand its information services beyond traditional collections and resources.

Disclaimer:
The Internet offers global access to information. However, not all sources on the Internet provide information that is accurate, complete or legal. The Library of Michigan is unable to monitor or control the content of Internet information (which changes rapidly and unpredictably). Internet users will need to evaluate for themselves the validity of information found. The availability of information via the Library's services does not constitute an endorsement of that information by the Library of Michigan. The Internet may contain information that is controversial, sexually explicit or offensive. Library patrons use the Internet at their own risk. Parents or guardians of minor children are responsible for their child's use of the Internet through the Library's connection.

User Responsibilities:
In order to use these resources, users must agree to the following conditions of use.

  1. Respect the privacy of other users.
  2. Patrons may not harass other Internet users in an effort to get them to abandon their workstation before their allotted time has expired.
  3. Users shall not intentionally seek information on, obtain copies of, or modify files, other data or passwords belonging to other users.
  4. Respect the legal protection provided by copyright and license to programs and data.
  5. Respect the integrity of computing systems; for example, users shall not intentionally develop programs that harass other users, breach the security of a computer or computing system or damage or alter the software components of a computer or network.
  6. The Library of Michigan does not permit the use of personal software, the attachment of equipment to the Library's computers or network or the modification of any operating system or network configuration.
  7. The Library of Michigan does not permit anyone to destroy, alter, dismantle or disfigure any data, information technologies, properties or facilities.

The Library's Internet workstations are intended for research activities. If it comes to the attention of the Library of Michigan that the Internet is being used inappropriately for illegal or criminal activity of any kind, the Library will cooperate with law enforcement officials in any manner authorized by state or federal statute.

Internet Computer Use Procedures

  1. Guest users may request a Login/PIN slip at the Reference Desk to use the public internet stations. These daily slips allow a one-hour period of use with 2 15-minute extensions possible if no one is waiting, for a maximum of 90 minutes per day.
  2. Regular users should apply for a free Library of Michigan library card which, with a PIN, allow use of the public internet stations. This is a one-hour period of use with 4 15-minute extensions possible if no one is waiting, for a maximum of 120 minutes per day.
  3. All users will note the State of Michigan Acceptable Use Policy on each station screen when logging in; users must comply with the Policy.
  4. No more than 2 persons may use a computer at one time.
  5. Be prepared to stop your work when your time is up. All computer use must be completed five minutes before the Library closes.
  6. The Library of Michigan expects users to maintain a business-like atmosphere conducive to research and study.
  7. Viewing of certain materials in the Library may be inappropriate, such as images with explicit sex or violence.
  8. Staff will assist users with basic internet instruction, however staff is not able to offer in-depth training or extensive explanations.
  9. The Library reserves the right to end an internet session without notice at any time, and to revoke Internet privileges.

10/03/2017