Anne Arundel County Public Library Internet Statement

The Anne Arundel County Public Library supports patrons’ informational, educational, and recreational interests by providing materials and information in a wide range of formats including access to information via the Internet.

The Internet is an important resource enabling library users to access information beyond the walls of the library. Information links on the Internet change rapidly and unpredictably, so sites may become unavailable without notice. Because not all sources on the Internet provide accurate, complete, or current information, patrons are advised to use information from the Internet at their own risk. The library does not warrant the reliability or truthfulness of information obtained from the Internet.

As a matter of library policy, pornographic images (whether obscene or not) may not be displayed on PC's in the library building . Illegal use of computers or other devices in the library") will be reported to law enforcement authorities. Since the Internet is an unregulated and rapidly changing medium, it is possible to find material that is offensive or disturbing to some users. All public and staff computers are equipped with software that is designed to block access to sites that contain visual depictions and/or information which is unlawful, which may reasonably be construed as being obscene, child pornography or materials "harmful to minors" as currently defined by law, or outside the scope of the library's collection selection policies and practice. The library is an open environment.

Despite these provisions, patrons may still encounter sites they find personally offensive. For this reason, patrons must assume responsibility for their own use of the Internet. Parents who are concerned about the contents of the Internet are strongly advised to closely supervise their children's use of this service.

Authorized library staff may unblock sites to enable access for bona fide research or other lawful purposes. The library provides an administrative process by which patrons may request that specific sites be blocked or unblocked. If patrons disagree with a decision regarding their requests, they may appeal to the Chief of Public Services and Branch Management. Final authority rests with the Administrator.

Software may not be loaded from the Internet onto the library's computers.

Adopted by the Anne Arundel County Public Library Board of Trustees
on January 15, 2004

Revised October 19, 2006

 

 
 
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