The Fitzwilliam Town Library offers direct access to limited Internet services as a part of its commitment to the role of the public library in the Information Age.
The Fitzwilliam Town Library, its Trustees and staff do not control the Internet. The Internet is a global entity. As with other library materials, restriction of a child's access to the Internet is the responsibility of the parent/legal guardian. Parents are encouraged to come in with their children and supervise Internet sessions.
The library cannot protect you from information which you may find controversial or offensive. Not all sites on the Internet provide accurate, complete or current information. You need to be a good information consumer, questioning the validity of the information you find.
You may not always be able to go to places on the Internet which you want to visit. Some of the reasons are:
There are too many internet visitors and the host computer has closed or limited access from the outside.
The database or resource is licensed to a particular institution with which you need to be affiliated.
The host computer has changed its address or closed down (This often happens.)
Guidelines
Access is not provided to e-mail (other than web-based e-mail), chat groups or bulletin boards.
Patrons must have a valid library card and sign in at the circulation desk.
Before patrons may use the internet service they must read the policy and guidleins and sign a statement that they understand and will abide by the policy abd guidelines. Youth under 18 are required to have a parent/guardian sign with them.
Patrons may reserve up to 30 minutes at a time. This time may be extended once, if no other patrons are waiting. Reservations may be made by telephone (585-6503). Unreserved time may be used on a walk-in basis by registered users. Library scheduled use of equipment takes precedence over individual use at all times.
The computers will be shut down 15 minutes prior to closing time.
Users may print pages to the printer at a cost of 10 cents per page for black and white and 50 cents per page for color. The printer may not support sophisticated graphics.
Users will be personally responsible for any materials ordered via the Internet. They mus tpay for these items with a credit card. The library will not be responsible for these or any related costs.
Any damage to the computer or its peripheral devices is the responsibility of the user. Abuse of the equipment or the service will result in the user being denied further access. Malicious damage may result in prosecution.
