Internet Access Policy

The Reading Public Library recognizes the importance of electronic information to the educational, informational, cultural, and recreational needs of the community.  To meet these needs, the Library offers full access to the Internet, current information about the Internet, and  instruction on the use of the Internet through hands-on classes, lectures, and walk-in lessons.

Wireless access provided by the Library is unsecured. Antivirus, security and privacy protection are the responsibility of the customer.  Patrons using Library wireless access must comply with this Internet Access Policy.

The Reading Public Library cannot guarantee the accuracy, authority, or timeliness of the information available on the Internet.  Patrons are advised to exercise caution in divulging personal information through direct electronic communications, as doing so can compromise personal safety and privacy.

Computers, like other library materials and services, are shared resources, and patrons are expected to limit their time on library computers while others are waiting.

Materials obtained or copied on this computer network may be subject to copyright laws that govern making reproductions of copyrighted works.

The Internet may contain material of a controversial or mature nature that may be offensive or disturbing to some individuals and may not be appropriate for certain age groups.  Full access to the Internet is compatible with the Library’s endorsement of the Library Bill of Rights; Access to Electronic Information Services and Networks; and with the policies, goals, and objectives of this public library; however, viewing of certain materials in the Library may be considered improper in time, place or manner.  The staff reserve the right to end an Internet session at any time if it is creating a disturbance.

Accessing material that meets the legal definition of obscenity is prohibited.  Minors shall not access material “harmful to minors.”  Blatantly offensive visual or text-based materials constitute potential sources of sexual harassment to other patrons and to library staff and will not be tolerated.  The use of Internet access through the Reading Public Library for illegal purposes or to transmit threatening, obscene, or harassing materials is also strictly prohibited.

Violation of any part of this policy may result in discipline including, but not limited to, loss of access to the computers and, in appropriate cases, exclusion from the library.

Approved:  9/15/97

Revisions Approved: 7/20/09