Administrative Policy #9.06 - Library Internet Access
Purpose
To fulfill its mission of providing public access to information of all types in a wide range of formats, the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library provides access to Internet resources.
Scope
Applies to everyone. Corvallis is a community that honors diversity. The City and the Library prohibit direct or indirect discrimination.
The Corvallis-Benton County Public Library upholds and affirms the right of each individual to have access to constitutionally protected material.
Procedures
- The Internet offers access to many valuable sources of information. However, some information found on the Internet may be inaccurate, incomplete, dated, or offensive to some individuals. A good information consumer must evaluate the validity and appropriateness of information found.
- The Library does not monitor or control the information available on the Internet. There are sites that carry information which individuals may think controversial or inappropriate. Users are encouraged to take advantage of the Internet but also to exercise discretion and to respect the privacy of others.
- The Library's Code of Conduct applies to the use of the Internet. The Code of Conduct is posted in all Library locations.
- As with the use of all Library materials, the Library affirms the right and responsibility of parents to determine and monitor their children's use of the Internet.
- Parents are warned that these links and the filtered search engines may not prevent children from accessing materials that some parents may feel is inappropriate. Parents may wish to supervise their children's Internet sessions.
- In order to make the Internet available to as many people as possible and to ensure that it is used in a manner consistent with Library policies, the Library will adopt and post rules regarding use of electronic resources.
- Users should be aware that the Internet is not a secure medium and that third parties may be able to obtain information regarding users' activities. However, the Library will not release information on the use of specific Internet resources by members of the public except as required by law or necessary for the proper operation of the Library.
- The Library reserves the right to take appropriate action to ensure compliance with its rules and regulations.
Guidelines
The Corvallis-Benton County Public Library is guided by the following American Library Association statements on access to information:
- The Library Bill of Rights
- Freedom to Read Statement
- Interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights: Free Access to Libraries for Minors and Access to Electronic Information Services and Resources
In general, the Library is guided by a commitment to access to information policies that provide appropriate protections to its patrons while being consistent with the Library’s longstanding commitment to the principles of free expression as set forth in the First Amendment to the United States Constitution.
Review/Update
The Library Director will prepare this Administrative Policy for review as needed for City Manager approval.
Last reviewed: 07-2024
