Computer, Internet, & Wireless Use Policy

Cranston Public Library Computer, Internet, & Wireless Use Policy

Purpose

To establish policy guidelines for the proper use of library computers and networks.

Definitions

Network
The library's computer network is a high-speed local area network (LAN) that facilitates communication between wired, public-access computers and library printers, and provides Wi-Fi for patron's mobile devices within the library. The network provides free access to the internet and library digital resources. Use of the network is subject to the library’s policies, including time limits and acceptable use requirements.

Personally Identifiable Information (PII)
Any data that can distinguish, trace, or identify an individual’s identity, either alone or when combined with other personal/identifying information. It includes direct identifiers (e.g., Social Security Number, passport) and indirect identifiers (e.g., ZIP code, birth date).

Policy

It is the policy of the Cranston Public Library (hereinafter “the Library”)¹ to provide free use of computers, free access to the Internet, and free wireless access to both interior and exterior Wi-Fi networks. The following policy guidelines outline the proper use of library computers and networks.

Using Library Computers

1. An Ocean State Libraries (OSL) library card in good standing² is required for Rhode Island residents to use library computers. Guest passes are available for limited access for out-of-state visitors.
2. Library cards are not transferable for computer use.  The result of using another patron’s library card is loss of computer access privileges.
3. Patrons who owe fifty (50) dollars or more in fines and fees on their library card account are not allowed to use library computers.
4. By default, the sound on library computers is turned off. Patrons may bring their own earphones to use with library computers. Earbuds are available for purchase. Otherwise, the sound on library computers must remain off.
5. The Library uses time management and reservation system on library computers.
6. The maximum daily computer time per patron is 4 hours systemwide. 
7. Library computers automatically shut down fifteen (15) minutes before closing.
8. Because library computers are a shared resource available to the public, it is important to log out of all personal accounts before ending your computer session.
9. Files can be temporarily saved to library computers but will be deleted upon session end. It is recommended to save files to an external device such as a flash drive to prevent loss of work.

Assistance

1. Staff have limited availability to assist patrons using library computers.
2. Staff are unable to process, administer, or enter transactions with personally identifiable information on behalf of patrons.

Disclaimers

1. Patrons use library computers and networks at their own risk.
2. The Library makes no guarantees, either expressed or implied, with respect to any technology, equipment, software or other library materials.
3. The Library does not monitor Internet use and cannot be held responsible for its content.
4. Monitoring a child’s access to the Internet is the responsibility of the parent, legal guardian or caregiver. 

Privacy and Security

1. Patrons should not have an expectation of privacy, as library computers are in view of other patrons and staff.
2. Every effort will be made to maintain a secure environment on library networks; however, Internet transactions, communications and activities are potentially vulnerable to unauthorized access.
3. The library’s public computers operate on a secure, managed network. In contrast, the library’s public Wi-Fi is an unencrypted, open network provided for convenience and may not be secure. Patrons should exercise caution when using Wi-Fi to access personal, sensitive information. The library takes no responsibility for any security vulnerabilities present on a patron’s mobile device.

Prohibited Behavior

Prohibited behavior using library computers and networks includes but is not limited to:

1. Committing or attempting to commit any act that violates this policy, the Library Use Policy, or any applicable federal, state, local law or ordinance while using a library computer or accessing a library network.
2. Attempting to bypass software on Library Catalog computers to gain full computer access.  
3. Attempting to bypass time management software on library computers to gain additional time and access. 
4. Using library computers and networks to view or disseminate material considered
   inappropriate for a public environment including content that is obscene, child pornography, or harmful to minors.
5. Engaging in any activity that is harassing, bullying, defamatory, or threatening.³
6. Violating copyright or software licensing agreements.

Printing

1. Printing is available at all library locations for a fee. Black & white printing costs 20 cents a page and color printing costs 50 cents a page.
2. The Library will only issue refunds for printing if the machine produced a blurred, black or otherwise unreadable copy or if the paper leaves the machine torn or wrinkled. Patrons should always use the Print Preview function before sending a print job to make sure the number of pages is correct, that no blank pages are included, and that the text on the page is complete.
3. Library printers use standard weight 8.5 x 11 size paper only. Patrons who wish to print on user-provided paper (such as resume paper) must ask staff before proceeding. The Library is not responsible for failed print jobs done on user-provided paper.
4. The Library offers printing from mobile devices at the Central Library. Documents can be submitted via a web portal or email. For more information on this service please ask a staff member.

Children’s Computers

1. Computers in children’s areas of the Library are for children’s use only. No adults may use these computers for any purpose unless they are a parent/legal guardian/caregiver accompanying a child.

Filtering and the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA)⁴

1. The Library complies with the federal Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) which requires the use of filtering software on public computers to limit children's access to material that is “(a) obscene; (b) child pornography; or (c) harmful to minors (for computers that are accessed by minors).”  
2. Filtering software may not block all material patrons might find offensive.
3. Adults, defined by CIPA as anyone over 17 years of age, may choose to use unfiltered computers for bona fide research or other lawful purposes. An authorized staff member may disable the filtering software, if the above criteria are met. 
4. Filtering software will also block network misuse, malware, and plagiarism.  

Personal Devices 

1. Library users who bring their own devices may connect to the wireless network and plug in their devices to designated outlets if needed.
2. Use of outlets designated for library equipment or in staff-only areas is prohibited.
3. Cords and other peripherals must not block aisles or cause a tripping hazard.
4. Personal electronic equipment should be silenced unless earphones are attached. 

Violation of Policy

Patrons who violate this policy will be directed to stop prohibited behavior. Depending on the nature and severity of the violation, they may be asked to leave Library premises⁵, have their library computer access suspended or revoked, have their Library privileges suspended, or be subject to arrest or other lawful action, as appropriate.

See also related policies: Library Use, Privacy

Revision History

Adopted by the Cranston Public Library Board of Trustees on June 10, 2015

Revised 7/11/2018

Revised 6/14/2023

Revised 5/13/2026

_{¹ refers to the Cranston Public Library, its governing board of trustees and its appointed director.
² As defined in the Library Card and Borrowing Policy section VII.
³ R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-52-4.2. Cyberstalking and cyberharassment prohibited.
⁴ https://www.fcc.gov/consumers/guides/childrens-internet-protection-act
⁵  includes the interior and exterior of any library building or structure, as well as the surrounding land.}