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Internet Acceptable Use Policy

Acceptable Use of the Internet

Smithers Public Library provides access to the Internet to meet the cultural, educational, informational and recreational needs of its diverse community. The Library offers access to the World Wide Web on the Internet. There are no downloading capabilities.

The Internet provides access to a wealth of information that can be personally, professionally and culturally enriching. There is no central control over Internet content or users. Because the Internet is a vast, unregulated and dynamic information network, it also enables access to ideas, information, images and commentary beyond the confines of the Library’s collection, mission, selection criteria and collection development policies. As such, the Library cannot protect users from information and images they might find offensive or disturbing.

Smithers Public Library strives to balance the right to access a wide range of resources with the right to work in a public environment free from harassing sounds and visuals. We ask you to remain sensitive to the fact that you are working in a public space shared by people of all ages, with a variety of interests and needs.

Parental Responsibility and Child Safety on the Internet

As with other library materials, parents or guardians are responsible for supervising their children’s selection of information on the Internet. Children who use the Internet unsupervised may be exposed to inappropriate or disturbing information. The Library suggests that parents who are concerned about the types of materials available on the Internet supervise their young children as they explore Internet sites and help them select resources consistent with their family’s values and boundaries.

Disclaimer

Not all the information available via the Internet is accurate, current or complete. Users are encouraged to exercise critical judgment in evaluating the validity of information accessed via the Internet. The Library assumes no responsibility for any damages, direct or indirect, arising from its connections to the Internet. The Library cannot be held liable for any information that may be lost, damaged or unavailable due to technical or other difficulties.

Responsible Use of the Internet

Please refrain from:

  • accessing or transmitting material online that is illegal or contrary to the Library’s policies;
  • altering or damaging computer equipment, software configurations, or files belonging to the Library, other users, or external networks
  • attempting unauthorized entry into the Library’s network or to any other computer system
  • behaviour that interferes with or disrupts other users, services or procedures.
  • distributing unsolicited advertising or propagation of computer viruses.

Violation of these conditions of use may result in loss of library privileges and/or exclusion from these resources. Any illegal activity involving the Library’s Internet resources may be subject to prosecution by the appropriate authorities.