Westfield Athenaeum Library
Children -
Computer Usage
POLICY STATEMENT: Children under the age of 14 may use the public access computers in the Boys and Girls Library. Children must have their own, valid library card in order to use the computers. A valid library card is one that does not carry any fines or overdue items.
Computer privileges allow access to the Internet. Parents and guardians should know that the Westfield Athenaeum does not employ Internet filtering software on its public Internet access computers. Parents who wish to accompany their child while the child uses the computer, may do so.
Children may use the computer for one hour per day in the Boys and Girls Library.
Only one child is permitted to use the computer at one time.
Acceptable Use
Internet resources are to be used in a responsible manner consistent with educational, informational and recreational purposes. Patrons of all ages are expected to use the computers in a responsible manner, respecting the rights of others.
Unacceptable Use
Computer privileges may be suspended or cancelled, at the discretion of the Reference Librarian, if a patron is found tampering with the computers, including any violations noted below:
- Degrading or disrupting equipment or system performance
- Vandalizing the data of other users
- Gaining unlawful access, including "hacking" and other unlawful activities
- Invading the privacy of others
- Violating software license agreements and copyright laws
- Violating other federal, state or local laws
- Deliberately displaying obscene images
- Proving minors with access to materials that are harmful to them
- Violating the automated reservation procedures or using someone else's library card
Safe Computing
Parents/guardians are encouraged to provide guidance to their children for the safe usage of electronic mail (email), chat rooms and other forms of direct electronic communication.
It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to ensure that their child does not access sites that may be inappropriate or potential harmful to the child. The library prohibits such access. See our web page on Internet Safety for children.
Approved by the Westfield Athenaeum Board of Trustees
December 13, 2004
