2.9 Internet Policy

The Chelmsford Public Library endeavors to develop collections, resources, and services that meet the diverse cultural, informational, recreational, and educational needs of the Chelmsford community. Access to the Internet and its many resources is one of these services the Library is making available to the public in response to advances in technology and the changing needs of the community. By providing access to the Internet, the Library is opening a gateway to information broader than its traditional practice of selecting materials and specific services. Information on the Internet is created by governments, corporations, universities, organizations, and individuals throughout the world. Not all sources on the Internet provide accurate, complete, or current information.

The Chelmsford Public Library does not monitor and has no control over the information accessed through the Internet and is not responsible for its content. As a result, to offer a choice in access, filtering software has been installed on computers in the children’s & teen areas and on other designated workstations.

Staff cannot monitor, control, or restrict anyone’s access to the range of information available. Parents are advised to supervise their children’s Internet sessions. The Library does not have the authority or the responsibility to act in the place of the parent.

It is the Library’s responsibility to maximize availability of this resource and to ensure fair accessibility for all. It is the patron’s responsibility to exhibit respect and consideration for staff and other users.

Patrons accessing the internet using Library resources must adhere to all aspects of the Library’s Computer Use Policy (Policy 2.8) and Appropriate Library Behavior Policy (Policy 2.5-1). Whether using a library computer or other personal device, patrons are expected to refrain from displaying graphics which are inappropriate for public viewing, or playing audio that could disturb other patrons. Patrons are also responsible for complying with the copyright law, licensing agreements and the policies of individual websites. Failure to abide by Library guidelines may lead to revocation of Internet or Library privileges.

Approved, Library Board of Trustees, December, 2015