2.1 Internet Access and Public Computers

Wadsworth Public Library provides internet access to the public through library-owned computers and an open wireless network.

A card from the Wadsworth Public Library is required to use the Library's public access computers. Any Ohio resident may apply for a card, free of charge. Out-of-state visitors may obtain a temporary "Guest Pass."  Library card-holders with outstanding fines/fees that prevent them from borrowing materials are not permitted to use the public access computers.

A card is not required to access and utilize the Library’s wireless network.

2.1.1       Single-User Policy

The Library’s single-user policy provision also extends to use of Library-owned internet access public computers. Only the individual cardholder named on the library account may gain access to the public computers with that card. Violation of this policy will lead to the revocation of library privileges.

2.1.2        Time Limits

The Library has set time limits to ensure that library-owned public computers are available to as many patrons as possible. Patrons will be limited as to length of time per log-in; number of log-ins; and total time per day.

A device connected to the Library’s wireless network may experience period session expirations. This measure is in place to increase security on the wireless network.

2.1.3       Internet Access

The Library provides free Internet access for use by authorized persons and for legal activity only through Library-owned computers and open access to the Library’s wireless network.

The Internet is an unregulated medium, and the Library is not responsible for the content or accuracy of information accessed over the Internet, nor can the Library control remote server availability or Internet response time.  The Library does not guarantee that any particular website or electronic transaction will work, or be compatible with, library-owned equipment or, in the case of the Library’s wireless network, personal devices.  Anyone using the Library's network to access the internet consents to all of the Library's policies and rules.

Patrons agree to hold the Library harmless from any claims, losses, demands, liabilities, obligations, cause of action, suit, judgment, expense (including attorney's fees), etc. relating to the use of the Library's computer equipment, network, phone lines, wireless service, or Internet connection.  

2.1.3.1     Confidentiality and Privacy

The Library does NOT guarantee that any username, password, email, credit card number, financial, or any other information entered is private or secure.  The Library recommends that you do NOT use the public work station or your personal device on the Library’s wireless network for any financial, confidential, or private transaction.

2.1.3.2     Access by Minors

While the Library makes all reasonable effort to ensure patron compliance with this policy, parents or legal guardians are ultimately responsible for a child's use of the Internet. Library staff is not responsible for monitoring or controlling a child's use of the Internet, except when that use is observed to violate this policy.  At its discretion, the Library reserves the right to deny minors use of the Internet when unaccompanied by a parent or legal guardian. 

2.1.3.3     Printing

Library-owned computers are networked to a printer for the convenience of Library patrons. Patrons are granted a daily allocation of $2.50. Black and white prints cost $0.05 each and color prints cost $0.50 each. Patrons printing in excess of the $2.50 daily allocation will be charged according to the above per page rates   It is the patron’s responsibility to ensure that they are printing only the desired number of pages they wish to print. Mobile printing is also available to those wishing to print from a personal device.

2.1.3.4     Warnings and Restrictions

Patrons may not use any Library computer or wireless network to harass others or for illegal purposes that violate local, state, or federal laws.  Illegal activity will be subject to the legal consequences available under the law.

The Copyright Law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the reproduction, distribution, adaptation, public performance, and public display of copyrighted material.  Responsibility for any possible copyright infringement lies solely with the user.  The Library disclaims any responsibility or liability resulting thereof.

Patrons may not attempt in any way to alter, damage, abuse, or sabotage computer equipment or software, alter configurations, or install any software.  Damage to the Library's network equipment, or attempts to access non-public areas of the network may result in prosecution and loss of computer privileges.

The display of objects or pictures that are sexually suggestive, extremely violent, etc. could be in violation of Ohio's Harmful to Juveniles statutes.  The Library reserves the right to terminate public computer or personal device sessions when the displaying of such content is witnessed by staff. Such displays may be subject to a response from local law enforcement. 

The Library reserves the right to prohibit internet use or physically ban patrons who violate these policies.

adopted: 9/19/2005 | revised: 11/19/2007, 6/22/2009, 6/20/2011, 6/19/2017, 1/1/2018, 9/19/2022