Internet, Computer & Wi-fi Policy
Internet, Computer, & Wi-Fi Policy
Background
It is the purpose of the Cathlamet Public Library to serve the information needs of the people in its service area through electronic and internet resources, together with its collection of Library materials.
The internet allows the Library to provide information and other resources not available within its physical collection, therefore enhancing current services available for users.
The Library acknowledges the internet is an unregulated resource which may provide access to materials that may be inaccurate, incomplete, offensive, disturbing, and / or illegal.
Internet and Computers
Internet access at Open Public Access Computer (OPAC) workstations is provided equally to all Library users. Library staff will assist patrons on electronic resources usage, as they do for other resources. Staff will also establish procedures to provide fair, reasonable, and legal use and access to internet resources, including time restrictions due to limited resources.
The Library upholds and affirms the right of individuals to have access to constitutionally protected materials. The Library also affirms the right and responsibility of parents or guardians to guide, determine, and monitor their children’s use of the internet.
All Library users will access the internet in compliance with the “Library’s Rules of Conduct,” and within the boundaries of the law. Viewing illegal materials (obscenity, child pornography or materials harmful to minors) is prohibited. Library users should not attempt to change, damage, “hack” or “fix” OPAC workstations. Failure to follow the “Rules of Conduct” may be cause for a temporary or permanent prohibition from use of the library equipment or facilities. Using the computer workstation constitutes an agreement by the user to these terms.
Library users are requested to exercise appropriate discretion in viewing materials. The Library does not guarantee privacy for individuals using library OPACs to search the internet, and computer screens may be visible to people.
Wi-Fi
The Library offers wireless internet access to our customers.
Wireless connections are not secure, use caution when transmitting personal information.
Wireless users who do not follow the rules for wireless internet use will be asked to stop using wi-fi inside the library, and may be excluded from the library.
Implementation
The Librarian is responsible for establishing procedures to carry out this policy.
Copies of the Internet, Computer, & Wi-Fi Policy, the Children’s Internet Protection Act Policy, Rules of Conduct, and other relevant documents, will be available to Library users in print or electronically as requested.
Adopted: July 9, 2015
Amended: February 1, 2024
Amended: October 6, 2025
Cathlamet Public Library Board of Trustees
