Computer & Internet Usage Policy

The Harris-Elmore Public Library & Genoa Branch Library are pleased to be able to provide access to the internet through OPLIN (Ohio Public Library Information Network) & Amplex. However, patrons must abide by the following rules; otherwise privileges may be revoked.

COMPUTER STATIONS

You may log into the Cybrarian Reservation Software using your library card and PIN. If you do not have your card, you need to check in with the front desk for a guest pass.
No more than ONE (1) person is allowed at a terminal. Exceptions may be made for parents working with a child or children working together on a project. This is only at the discretion of the staff member on duty.
A time limit of thirty (30) minutes will be placed on internet use if other patrons are waiting
No personal software may be used on public access computers, nor may the patron's own work be saved to the computer hard drive. Portable hardware, such as a USB drive are permitted.
There will be a charge of fifteen (15) cents per sheet of paper printed in black and white. There will be a charge of twenty-five (25) cents for each page printed in color. You must alert the front desk of when you are printing so they may release the print job.
Users are responsible for damage to the computers incurred during use and will be required to pay for damages.
Currently the library does not offer computer classes. Therefore, users must be able to use computers on their own. Staff will make every effort to assist users as time and their capabilities permit.
Rowdiness or horseplay will not be tolerated, nor will the use of inappropriate language or internet sites.

INTERNET USAGE

Due to the sheer volume of information available through the Internet and the fact that thousands of websites are added daily, it is impossible for the Library, or any entity, to monitor or regulate the Internet. Much information on the Internet is not accurate or reliable. The Library does not guarantee that any website is authoritative, current, factual, legal, or complete, and cannot be held responsible for its content.

The Harris-Elmore Public Library and its Genoa Branch employs computer filtering software which complies with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA), which mandates that access to the Internet be filtered for the protection of those under the age of 17. However, no current filtering software is guaranteed to block all harmful content. The Library affirms that parents and legal guardians are responsible for restricting the sites selected from the Internet by their children. It is suggested that parents develop a set of rules to be used regarding the Internet. The library staff will be happy to suggest sites especially suitable for children. While the Library is able to limit the individual's amount of time spent using the internet, restriction of a minor's access to the Internet is the responsibility of the minor's parent or legal guardian.

Users must comply with the U.S. copyright law and all other applicable laws.

Users may not send, receive, or display text, video or graphics that may be construed as obscene, sexually explicit or illegal. This may include any AI generated text or displays.
Users may not use this resource for illegal purposes.
Users may not download copyrighted material.
Users may not modify or gain access to files, passwords, or data belonging to others, by seeking unauthorized access to any computer system or damaging or altering computer software components of any network, host server, or database.
Users may not misrepresent themselves as another user

When Library staff observe an adult or child engaged in viewing material inappropriate for general public view or breaking the above rules, staff members will instruct them to move to another site. Failure to comply may result in ejection from the library and/or loss of Internet privileges.

The Harris-Elmore Library & Genoa Branch Library assume no responsibility for any damages, direct or indirect, arising from the use of an internet site or from its connections to other internet services. Be advised that financial information transmitted may nor be secure. All users agree to hold the Library, OPLIN and Amplex harmless from any claims, losses, damages, obligations, or liabilities, directly or indirectly relating to the use of the internet.

WIRELESS INTERNET

The Library is pleased to offer free wireless internet access to users with wireless enabled mobile devices and through use of library hot spots for checkout. Wi-Fi is less secure than a wired network. Signal strength may vary in the building.

By choosing to use this service, you agree to abide by the library's internet policy that prohibits abusive or illegal activity while using the library's internet service. The user acknowledges that he/she is subject to and agrees to abide by all laws and rules and regulations of the State of Ohio and the federal government that is applicable to Internet use.

Use of the wireless network is at your own risk and the Library is not responsible for any damage that may occur to your computer/device while connected. The library assumes no responsibility for the safety of patron equipment or other wireless device configurations, security or data files.

It is the responsibility of the user to understand this policy and his/her obligation to refrain from viewing inappropriate or illegal websites, or using the Wi-Fi connection to engage in illegal activities including, but not limited to:

Misrepresenting themselves as another user
Attempting to gain access to data belonging to others
Downloading copyrighted material

Adopted by Board of Trustees on November 12, 2013

Revised September 9, 2024

Revised June 8, 2026