Computer Access Policy

Parents, Children and the Internet

Parents, guardians and other caregivers are responsible for their child’s use of the Internet. The library and its staff do not assume parental responsibility for a child using the Internet.

The library supports the right and responsibility of parents to monitor the use of the Internet of their own children. 

Library’s Responsibility

It is the library’s intention to provide all patrons and staff Internet and computer access for educational, informational and recreational purposes, while making sure public funds are used appropriately. To this end, library locations may set restrictions such as:

  • Requiring reservations or using a first come, first served basis.
  • Time limits on use.
  • Bandwidth restrictions
  • Limiting the number of people at a computer

Internet and Computer User’s Responsibility

Users must:
  • Respect the privacy of others.
  • Avoid creating a disturbance.
Users may not:
  • Engage in any activity which constitutes a violation of local, state and/or federal laws or a copyright violation.
  • Violate the Library's Code of Conduct.
    Attempt to modify or gain access to files, passwords, or information belonging to others.
  • Install or run unapproved software on library computers.
  • Connect a personal computer or other device to the library network without library permission. Patrons may, however, use public wireless access at those locations where it is available and advertised as open to the public.
  • Attempt unauthorized access to computers or networks.
  • Damage or tamper with any library hardware, software, or files.
  • Use or distribute worms, viruses or other software designed to damage or compromise computer security or operations.
  • Misrepresent oneself as another user or engage in any type of fraudulent activity on the network.
  • Access inappropriate sites. If they reach such sites by accident, they must promptly exit.
  • Send, receive, print or display text or media that are obscene or illegal as defined by section 2907.01 of the Ohio Revised Code or that are unprotected under the U.S. or Ohio Constitutions.

The library reserves the right to end Internet and computer sessions if these rules are violated. Violations or failure to comply with the directions of library staff may result in the suspension or revocation of privileges at the library. Additionally, illegal activities will be reported to the police.

Disclaimer

All users of the services offered by the Lorain Public Library System agree to hold the Lorain Public Library System and the Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN) harmless from any and all claims, losses, damages, obligations or liabilities, directly or indirectly relating to the use of its computers, network and Internet service. In no event shall the Lorain Public Library System have any liability for lost profits for indirect, special, punitive or consequential damages or any liability to any third party that may arise from the use of its computers, network or Internet services, even if the Lorain Public Library System or OPLIN is advised of the possibility of such damages. The Lorain Public Library System is not responsible for damage to a patron’s removable media or computer, or for any loss of data, damage, or liability that may occur from patron use of the library’s computers and network.

The library does not guarantee that every Internet service and every patron device or storage media will work with the library’s computers and network.

The availability of information via the library’s network does not constitute any endorsement or ratification of that information.

The library upholds and affirms the right of each individual to have access to constitutionally protected materials.