1.0 Purpose:

• The purpose of this policy is to establish that the DeSoto Public Library provides general computer usage is availability through the computer time management system reservation desk and provides internet access for its customers.

2.0 Computer Use and Internet Access:

1. Internet User Guidelines.

1. Customer accepts terms and conditions when logging into the computer
2. Unacceptable use of library technologies and / or internet can result in revocation of privileges. Unacceptable use includes but is not limited to:
   1. Viewing, displaying or printing explicit (obscene / pornographic) images is prohibited by Texas law (PC 43.24, Sale Distribution or display of Harmful Material to Minor).
   2. Misrepresenting yourself or transmitting obscene, threatening, or harassing materials; or engaging in conduct which is deemed deliberately offensive, hostile or unlawful.
   3. Violating U.S. Copyright laws (Title 17, U.S. Code) by reproducing or distributing copyrighted materials except as permitted by “fair use” principals. Responsibility for this rests with the customer.
   4. Violating the integrity of the computer system or network or tampering with security, passwords or structure of the system. This includes damaging or destroying library equipment, computer hardware, computer software or data.
   5. Uploading, installing, setting up, running or executing any program or software shall not be authorized by the library on any of the library’s computers.

2. Filtering and CIPA.

1. The City of DeSoto has a filter in place to uphold the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA). 

3. Confidentiality of Use.

1. It is the intent of the library to maintain customer confidentiality related to computer usage, in so far as it is reasonably practicable and legal to do so. The library will maintain security safeguards but reserves the right to monitor workstations should it become necessary by reason of policy infringement, court order, statute or a governmental administrative decision.

4. Staff Assistance.

1. Although the library staff may provide assistance with computer usage they will not act in the capacity of, nor be responsible for training customers on all aspects of computer usage.

5. Sanctions.

1. User privileges may be revoked upon any violation of this policy. Library Management has full authority to disallow further usage of the workstations. An appeal for reinstatement of privileges must be made through the Library Director, with whom the final decision will rest.
2. Usage that encroaches upon standards set by law will be dealt with appropriately and firmly. Federal, state and local laws concerning these matters will be upheld and violators may be subject to prosecution. 

3.0 Wireless Access:

1. The DeSoto Public Library wireless access is part of the City of DeSoto wireless access and as such is bound to the City’s wireless policy, City of DeSoto Wireless Internet Access Disclaimer.
2. The public is allowed to utilize the Wi-Fi with their personally owned devices. The Library recommends that all devices connected to the public wireless network be configured with active, up-to-date antivirus and personal firewall software.
3. The Library staff is not permitted to handle your laptop, wireless adapter card or device configuration, and cannot and will not provide any other technical assistance for wireless access. The Library is not liable for your equipment.
4. The Library and its staff cannot guarantee that you will be able to make a wireless connection.
5. Customers are responsible for having the proper hardware, software and network settings on their wireless device to connect to the Library provided Wi-Fi.
6. The Library is not responsible for any theft, damage or misuse of customers’ personal notebooks, laptops and other mobile devices while use in the Library,
7. Customers using DeSoto Public Library provided Wi-Fi must comply with all aspects of the DeSoto Computer, Internet Policy.
8. Misuse of the Library’s Wi-Fi may result in loss of computer access privileges, potential loss of library privileges, and possible prosecution.

Last revised: October 5, 2020