Computer & Internet Use Policy

1. Users of the Library’s computers are expected to abide by the rules of the library, including the Rules of Conduct, which are available upon request. While the County Library upholds the principles of the First Amendment, some activities are more suitable for private viewing and/or are illegal.  Library equipment and networks may not be used to access pornography, material that is obscene or is harmful to minors, or any other illegal activity, such as hacking.  Library users who do so will be required to stop immediately.  Repeated offenses may result in permanent denial of access to the Library’s Internet.
2. Computer users must be registered San Benito County Free Library cardholders. Guest passes are available upon request.
3. Customers may use the computers daily up to 180 minutes, as the timer automatically logs off the workstation. To protect your privacy, please log off after your session is finished.
4. Due to limited space and COVID-19 guidelines, only one customer is allowed at each Internet workstation. The library respects and supports customer privacy. The library also attempts to maintain an appropriate noise level.
5. Customers may not use or download personal software programs on library computers. This may cause computer crashes, file corruption, and viruses.
6. To save files or documents, customers may use flash drives. Files may not be saved on the hard drive of library computers.
7. Printing files or documents is available through a networked printer. The cost of printing is .15¢ per page for black and white copies, and $.50 per page for color copies. If possible, please preview print jobs before printing. Customers may pick up and pay for their print jobs at the “pay for print” station. Assistance is provided for print jobs, if needed, by library staff.
8. Due to technical limitations, the library does not provide local email accounts; however, the use of free email sites (e.g. Hotmail, Yahoo, and Gmail), is allowed.
9. Parents or legal guardians of children who use the computer and Internet resources at the library are responsible to guide their children’s usage of online resources and decide which resources are appropriate for their children.
10. Patrons are reminded that the library’s computers that are in the designated area are shared with library users of all ages, backgrounds, and sensibilities. Individuals are expected to consider this diversity and respect the sensibilities of others when accessing potentially offensive information or images. The Internet workstations also cannot be used for playing online computer gambling.
11. The Internet workstations cannot be used for any fraudulent or unlawful purpose. This includes any activities prohibited under any applicable federal, California, or local laws.
12. Library staff is available to assist with basic computer use such as printing, logging-on, computer crashes or freezes, and other minor troubleshooting. The library staff is unable to provide extended individual training or technical support.
13. Wireless users assume all risks, as the library provides a free unsecured wireless network for Internet access. It is the sole responsibility of the wireless user to provide antivirus protection and appropriate security settings on their wireless devices within library facilities and the Internet itself.
14. The San Benito County Free Library expressly disclaims any liability or responsibility arising from access to or use of information obtained through its electronic resources or any consequences thereof.

Last updated 04/30/2021