The Internet is an unregulated, worldwide environment. It contains information and opinions that range in scope from reliable and authoritative to controversial or offensive. While the Internet offers a vast amount of information, the Library is not responsible for its contents. Nor can the Library endorse all the sources on the Internet as accurate, complete, current or consistent with community values, Users they obtain on Internet, and taking responsibility for the uses to which they put the information gleaned.

The library supports and protects the principle of intellectual freedom. The Library does not monitor or control any of the information available on the Internet. Users are hereby notified that they are responsible for the access points they reach through the Internet. The Criminal Code provides restrictions on the content of communications, including Internet communications: obscene material, child pornography, hate propaganda, and sedition. Accessing material of this type is a violation of the Criminal code and appropriate charges may be laid. The Criminal Code is available for consultation in the Library. As with other library materials, parents of legal guardians are responsible for any restrictions they might choose to place on a young person's access. In the case of Internet, young people up to age 16 must have parental/ guardian consent, in person to register for and use the Library's Internet facility.

Library Internet workstations are available principally for Information searches. Patrons may use the designated workstations for e-mail receipt and sending, but no account may be added to library workstations. Workstations are not available for online dating, news group, listserv, bulletin board and similar purposes. Workstations may be used to do word processing and access software resident on the microcomputer.

Certain copying or distribution of material found on the Internet may infringe on the copyright laws of Canada. Belleville Public Library is not responsible for such infringements. The Copyright law is available for consultation in the library.

Library staff is available to provide basic assistance in the use of the Internet. Staff will assist to connect or disconnect if required, but cannot provide in-depth assistance or one-on-on training concerning use of the Internet or personal computer use.

In consideration of other library patrons, no more than two individuals may participate in a single Internet access session. The regular Library rules of conduct apply.

Internet workstations are available during Library hours, subject to technical availability and periodic maintenance. Headphones may be requested for use on appropriately equipped workstations. Cleaning, care and return of headphones is the user's responsibility.

Presentation of a valid Belleville Hastinet library card or other identification is required for use of the Library Internet workstations. Visitors who do not have a valid Belleville Hastinet library card may ask for visitor pass.

Misuse of computer equipment or illegal use of Internet access may result in loss of Library privileges, and , if appropriate Criminal Code sanctions. Suspected violations of this policy should be immediately reported to the staff member on duty. Review and appropriate action will be taken by the senior staff member in the service area.

Approved April 14,1998 Revised October, 2003