Internet Use Policy
(Developed by the Board of Trustees, July 1996 / revised Sept. 1999)

In response to the advances in technology and the changing needs of the community, the Scituate Town Library endeavors to develop and provide appropriate access to library collections, resources and services that meet the cultural, informational, recreational and educational needs of the residents of Scituate.

Internet connectivity is made available through membership in the Old Colony Library Network (OCLN) and is partially funded by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC). Specialized databases funded by the MBLC, the SEMLS and OCLN are made available to residents through the OCLN Internet connection. In addition, the local cable television contract holder, MediaOne, provides the library with free connections to the Internet. The Internet, as accessed through the library, is intended to be an educational and informational tool. Chat room and user group participation, E-mail, electronic business transactions, and downloading are contrary to the intent of this policy.

The Scituate Town Library does not monitor and has no control over the information accessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its content. As with any other library materials, restriction of a child's access to the Internet is the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian.

Library staff cannot provide in-depth training concerning the use of the Internet. We may, however, be able to offer suggestions.

Appointments to use the Internet are made and the Reference and Circulation Desks. Patrons may sign-in for one half hour of Internet use, renewable for an additional half hour is no one is waiting.