Internet and Online Access Policy & Procedures

Policy Purpose

Public access to the Internet, devices, and software is an important library resource to assist all county residents to access the digital world and the essential services provided through it. The provision of these services is governed by federal and state laws. This policy is intended to meet the provisions of the Federal Children’s Internet Protection Act, Utah Code Annotated (UCA) 9-7-213, 9-7-215, and 9-7-216 and Utah Administrative Rule R458-2. This policy is approved by the Duchesne County Library System (the library) Board of Trustees, is reviewed at least every three years, and is available at the library’s branches and website.

Internet Access Regulation

To comply with the requirements of the aforementioned regulations, the library uses a technology protection measure (filter) on its internet networks and Wi-Fi. The filter restricts access to online gambling as prohibited in UCA 76-10-1102 and material described in UCA 9-7-215, which includes visual depictions defined as child pornography or child sexual abuse material, harmful to minors, or obscene. The filter may not block all restricted content due to the rapid change of Internet content. Various deceitful, obscene, and malicious actions are prohibited including: intentionally accessing or transmitting blocked materials to oneself or others; bypassing the filter; illegal activity; “hacking;” modification of library computers or software; cyberbullying; and unauthorized disclosure, use, or dissemination of anyone’s personal information. Though the library is not responsible for the content and use of materials accessed by users while on the Internet, intentionally or unintentionally; the library reserves the right to deny Internet and library services to individuals violating the law and/or library policies. Illegal activities will be reported to the appropriate authorities. Confidentiality and privacy are also not guaranteed on the Internet and user access may be monitored at any time by authorized or unauthorized individuals.

The copyright law of the United States (Title 17 U.S. Code) governs the making of photocopies and other reproductions of copyrighted material. Patrons using library equipment are liable for any infringement of that law or pirating of physical or digital content.

A reminder of this Internet policy is displayed, and must be agreed to, on the login screen of patron computers. Minors need either their own library card or a signed access consent form signed by the parent/guardian. Consent to internet access is implied for a minor that has a card, unless adjusted by the guarantor with the library staff. Library staff may monitor computer use; however, parents/