Public Internet Policy
Our Purpose
The mission of the Kings County Library is to support lifelong learning by providing books, information and other important resources to meet the educational, cultural and recreational needs of the public we serve. In support of this mission, the Kings County Library offers free public access to the Internet.
Public Access to the Internet
To fulfill its mission of providing public access to information of all types in a wide range of formats, the Library provides access to Internet resources for all patrons. This access is filtered in compliance with our participation in the federally funded “E-Rate” program. The E-Rate program provides affordable Internet access to schools and libraries. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requires E-Rate participants to follow the 2001 Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA), a federal law. The Kings County Library will continue to filter Internet access until such time as we no longer participate in E-Rate or the federal law is changed. However, the Supreme Court has ruled that adults 18 years and older may request Library staff to disable the filter for legitimate use that does not violate the CIPA Law or compromise the Library network. The disabling of the filter would be for a specific period of time on a specific workstation. Parents or guardians obtaining a library card for a minor in their custody are required to read our Internet safety policy entitled Internet Safety and Minors at the Library regarding the safety of minors using public access computers with Internet while in the Library and more details regarding filtering. Ask staff for a copy of this document if you are not given one at the time of library card registration.
Choosing and Evaluating Sources
The Internet is a series of communication linkages leading to a highly diverse array of information content. Library patrons use it at their own risk. The Library does not monitor or control information accessible through the Internet and is not responsible for its content, for changes in content of the sources to which the Library home pages link, or for the content of sources accessed through secondary links. Patrons are responsible for using good judgment with regard to evaluating web site content and accuracy.
Public Users' Security
Users should be aware that the Internet is not a secure medium and that third parties may be able to obtain information regarding users' activities. However, the Library will not release information on the use of specific Internet resources by members of the public except as required by law. Additionally, all Kings County public computers with access to the Internet do not save history or cookies. The Library assumes no responsibility for items purchased on the Internet or any transactions involving the use of an individual’s credit card or any other personal information. Please read our separate section regarding Confidentiality of Library Records.
Adopted by the Kings County Board of Supervisors on: November 4, 2008.
