SSJCPL: Electronic Resources - the Internet (Administrative Policy Directive)

Stockton-San Joaquin County Public Library

STOCKTON-SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY

ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY DIRECTIVE

SUBJECT: Electronic Resources - The Internet

Rev. 2-98 100-3
Adopted by Stockton City Council 12/15/98

PURPOSE:: To assure individuals equal access to Internet resources and databases.

POLICY:: The Library will make available Internet services and resources in accordance with its mission and selection criteria/standards of collection development.; Internet resources and databases are available on an equal basis to all library users.; The Library supports the American Library Association Intellectual Freedom statements which include the Library Bill of Rights and the Freedom to Read. Any restriction of a minor's access to the Internet is the responsibility of their parent/legal guardian.

GUIDELINES:

1. The Internet will be available from each of the Library's online public service agencies. At the Central Library, the Internet will be available in the Adult/Young Adult section and the Children's section.

2. Staff at each Central Library section and branch library will determine the number of Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC) terminals/PCs that will include Internet access, based on need/demand, total number of OPACs available, etc. Each library will have at least one OPAC terminal/PC offering access to the Internet.

3. The Library will provide assistance to the public in the use of the Internet.

4. The Library will provide the capability to print out Internet information. Libraries with PC access to the Internet may provide the capability to download Internet information to a library-purchased floppy disc.

5. Procedures on use of the Internet will be determined by staff at each Central Library section and branch library, based on need/demand, total number of Internet access OPACs available, etc.

6. The Library will not offer DRA-based Internet e-mail accounts, Usenet newsgroups, or Internet Relay Chats (IRC) to the public.

7. Modifying/tampering with hardware and software is vandalism to Library property and may result in legal action.

8. Use of the Internet that violates the Library's Responsible Use of the Library and Its Facilities policy may result in loss of library privileges and/or legal action.