1.     The Internet is provided as a free service to Wissahickon Valley Public Library (WVPL) card holders;  however, in fairness to all, we have set limits on the length of time individuals may use this service.  Sessions will be limited to twenty (20) minutes if other patrons are waiting to access the Internet.

2.     The Library charges for any printouts that you make.  You will be charged 10 cents per page (effective 10/1/03).

3.     Chat rooms, games, and newsgroups are instances of Internet access that the WVPL does not allow.

4.     The WVPL staff will generally be available to answer questions and assist with logging on to the Internet; however, we cannot provide detailed instructions on the use of the Internet.

5.     The Internet is a vast, worldwide network with very few restrictions or limitations.  The Library has no control over the content or accuracy of the information found on the Internet, and strongly advises any user to exercise critical judgment.  Library personnel do not monitor nor supervise Internet access and cannot censor access to materials or protect the users from information.  The WVPL is a filtered connection; however, the Library cannot be responsible for offensive material that may appear on the Internet in the Library.  Parents or guardians of minor children, NOT THE LIBRARY NOR LIBRARY STAFF, assume responsibility for their children's selection and/or access of information through the Library's Internet connection.  As an Internet user, you alone are responsible for the information you choose to view.

Keep in mind that it is a felony offense in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania "To display or cause to display any explicit sexual material...on any...viewing screen in such manner that the display is visible...in any establishment where minors, as part of the general public, may be exposed to view all or any part of such materials." (Penna. Crimes Code - Sect. 5903).  Therefore, viewing of such material in the public library will not be permitted.  Violations of this provision may result in the immediate termination of your Internet privileges as a minimum.

6.     Library users, by using the Library's Internet access, agree to comply with the WVPL guidelines and procedures, and the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the United States, including copyright laws.

7.     Patrons must sign an Acceptable Use Contract prior to using the Library's computers to access the Internet.  Students younger than 7th grade must have an adult present while using the Internet.  All patrons under age 18 must also have a parental consent form signed and on file.

8.    The Library does what it can to keep our computer equipment virus free; however, we cannot be responsible for any viruses that may be transmitted via Internet files or the Library computers.

9.    Users may not turn equipment on or off, change settings on the computer, plug personal equipment into the computers, load personal programs onto or play personal programs on the computer.

10.    The Library reserves the right to end an Internet session at any time.

Adopted by the WVPL Board of Trustees, March 11, 1999     Revised, June 8, 2000.