Computer and Internet Access Policy

Introduction
The Maynard Public Library provides access to the Internet through public computers located on the 2nd and 3rd floors of the building as well as through a public wireless network available throughout the property. These resources are made available to all and at no charge, for educational, informational, and recreational purposes.

Library staff are available to offer suggestions for search strategies and to help patrons find information. While assistance will be provided, patrons should not expect staff to do their work for them. Depending on desk coverage, staff may allow as much as 15 minutes assisting a patron before returning to their service desk to be available to assist other patrons. Appointments with a Reference Librarian are available for more in-depth assistance.

Printing
The Library offers printing in both grayscale and color. Information on fees for printing is posted on the Library website and on a sign near the printers. The Library is only able to accept cash or checks for printouts. Patrons are requested to limit their printing to 50 pages per day.

Equipment
Patrons are asked to leave all equipment on when they are done using it and to inform a Library staff member if a hardware or software problem arises. Patrons may not add, remove, or alter settings or software. Portable USB flash drives may be attached to computers or copiers and may be borrowed at the Reference Desk if needed.

The Library is not responsible for any damage to a patron’s disk, USB drive, or computer or for any data loss or other liability that may occur from patron use of Library computers, copiers, electronic resources, or wireless network.

Saving Data and Files
Once a Library computer session ends, or if the computer powers off for any reason, any files that a patron has saved to the computer are immediately deleted and cannot be recovered by staff. Patrons are encouraged to save their data regularly on the cloud or use a removable storage device. When done with a public computer session, patrons should log out to protect their own security.

Audio
When listening to any content, patrons must use headphones and keep volume low so as not to disturb others. Headphones can be borrowed at the Reference or Children’s Desks.

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Copyright, License Agreements, and the Law
Patrons are responsible for complying with copyright law, licensed database and software agreements, and the policies of individual websites that they view. Patrons may not use the Library’s internet service for any illegal activity, including unauthorized copying of copyright-protected material or hacking.

Filtering
The Library does not filter access to Internet websites on any public computer but may monitor patron usage. Parents have the responsibility to monitor their children’s use of Library resources. We suggest that parents concerned about access issues become familiar with this policy and join their children in using the Library’s Internet services. Accessing any obscene material is prohibited (see Massachusetts General Law 272), as is the transmission of any threatening, harassing, or defamatory messages or materials. Violation of any part of this policy may result in loss of access to public computers and, in appropriate cases, expulsion from the Library.

Privacy
The Library’s wireless network is an unencrypted network. Data that is sent on an unencrypted network can be monitored or recorded, and connected devices may be vulnerable to security attacks. Antivirus, security, and privacy protection are the responsibility of the patron. Users of both the public computers and wireless network accept these risks and the Library is not responsible for damage or loss from the use of its networks.

Approved by the Library Board of Trustees: April 23, 2024