The Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District (“The District”) provides unfiltered internet access as a core service for library patrons. Internet access is available throughout the District at designated public computer workstations and through “Wi-Fi” wireless access.
The internet is a vast and unregulated information network. As such, the District does not endorse any content, commentary, or viewpoint, nor confirm the accuracy, currency, or quality of any information available on the Internet.
Patrons are cautioned that the internet is not a secure medium and all transactions, files, communications, and other information provided on the Internet may be vulnerable to unauthorized access. Patrons are solely responsible for protecting their personal information while using the District’s internet connections. Any data loss, breach of privacy, or damage to patron devices, equipment, or software is the sole responsibility of the patron.
Internet access is available in public areas that are shared by people of all ages, backgrounds, and sensibilities. Patrons are asked to consider this when accessing potentially controversial, offensive, or disturbing information and images.
Parents or legal guardians, not library staff, are solely responsible for deciding which Internet resources are appropriate for their own children. Children who use the Internet unsupervised may be exposed to inappropriate and disturbing information and images. Parents and guardians are encouraged to place appropriate controls or restrictions on the use of personal mobile devices that their children may use in the library, as desired.
The District requires patrons using the internet do so within the guidelines of acceptable use and in accordance with federal, state, and local law. Unacceptable uses include, but are not limited to:
- Hacking
- Fraud
- Violation of copyright laws or software licensing agreements
- Accessing illegal sites
- Harassment of other patrons
- Destruction of or damage to equipment, software, or data belonging to the library or other patrons
- Behaving in a manner that is disruptive to other patrons
Enforcement of Policy
All staff are authorized to ask patrons whose choices violate this policy to correct their behavior and act in a respectful manner. In the event the behaviors are not corrected, staff may ask patrons to leave the library for the remainder of the day. All staff are authorized to call 9-1-1 for assistance, if needed.
Those engaging in repeat behaviors, or behaviors that are severely disruptive or dangerous to others, may have their library privileges limited or suspended for up to a year at the discretion of the Library Director. In the event the patron is a minor, parents will be notified of this action.
Patrons whose library privileges are limited or suspended may appeal the decision, in writing, to The Board. A hearing will be held at the next regularly scheduled Board meeting and the decision of The Board is final.
