Public Service Policy

Section 7: Technology

7.1 Internet Access

The library provides access to the internet at all locations. The number and length of sessions patrons may use on library computers may be limited to ensure equal access to all users. A library card is not required.

7.2 Digital Presence

7.2.1 Website

The website is the library’s official presence on the internet, and it serves as a gateway to the library’s resources and as a public relations tool that promotes the library in a digital environment. The website’s primary audience is the residents of Ross County; as such, the information and resources provided will be geared toward the local community whenever possible. Data collected from site metric tools, usability studies, user suggestions, staff recommendations, and various other sources will be continuously used to improve the site.

Overall responsibility for the site resides with the Access Director, working with other library staff in an inclusive, consultative, collaborative manner to create content and resolve technical issues.

The website provides access to the resources offered through the library’s purchases and consortia memberships. The website may also provide links to other sites that may be useful to our community members. When possible, the links will be to non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and government agencies. Links to business or financial partners, commercial websites, or other informational sites will only be included when library management has determined the information provided within those sites is free, sufficiently accurate and authoritative, and not available through a comparable non-profit, educational, or government agency site.

Links placed on the website must meet the following criteria:

• Links direct to the originating institution, not to a third party
• Linked sites should contain up-to-date information, creation/revision dates, and contact information.
• If the source of the information cannot be readily determined, the content manager will verify the accuracy of the content before providing it as a link from the website.
• When linked sites deal with controversial topics, sites with differing points of view should be provided whenever possible.

7.2.2 Social Media

The library uses social media to communicate and interact with the community. The library reserves the right to monitor content before it is posted on all of its social media websites and accounts, and to modify or remove any messages or postings that it deems, in its sole discretion, to be abusive, defamatory, in violation of copyright, trademark right or other intellectual property right of any third party, or otherwise inappropriate for the service. The library also reserves the right to edit or modify any submissions in response to requests for feedback or other commentary. However the library is not obligated to take any such actions, and will not be responsible or liable for content posted by any subscriber in any forum, message board, or other area within the service.

7.3 Equipment for Public Use within the Library

When available, the library provides devices (laptops, tablet computers, etc.) for patron use within the library.

7.3.1 Eligibility

7.3.2 Usage Limits and Fees

• The number of sessions per day may be limited due to demand.
• Once a device is checked out to a patron, it becomes the responsibility of that patron.
• Devices that are taken out of the building for any reason will be considered stolen and reported to the police.
• If any technical problems are encountered, staff should be notified immediately. Patrons should not attempt repairs, adjustments, or alterations of any kind.
• Devices stop circulating 30 minutes before closing regardless of the length of the final session.
• The patron is responsible for the full replacement cost if the device or any of its parts are lost, stolen, damaged, or otherwise not returned.
• Unreturned devices will be considered stolen and will be reported to the police.

7.3.3 Responsibilities

• Borrowers are not to leave the device unattended.
• Borrowers are not to place food and beverages near the device.
• Borrowers are not to load personal software or programs or make any changes to the operating system or system files under any circumstances.
• Borrowers must use their own headphones.
• The library is not responsible for any files left on any device or for loss or damage to user files during the loan period.
• The library is not responsible for any viruses, malware, spyware, adware, or any other harmful software that may be transferred to or from user files.
• For privacy issues, all user files will be removed from the device after each use.
• Failure to comply with any of these rules and guidelines will result in the loss of the privilege of borrowing portable devices.

7.4 Printing and Related Services

The library provides self-service equipment for making copies, printing from library computers, and fax services. Fees vary. The library assumes no responsibility for the quality of prints or photocopies. The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, U.S. Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material; patrons using library equipment are liable for any infringement.