Technology Policies

Computer Usage Policy

All users of public computers are expected to use these resources in a responsible manner, consistent with the educational, informational and recreational purposes for which they are provided.

Responsible, ethical use of these resources includes the following:

• Using resources for educational, informational and recreational purposes only, not for unauthorized, illegal or unethical purposes.
• Respecting the privacy of others by not misrepresenting oneself as another user; by not attempting to modify or gain access to files, passwords, or data belonging to others; by not seeking unauthorized access to any computer system; or damaging or altering software components of any network or database.
• Respecting the privacy of others using these resources by not interfering with their use.
• Making only authorized copies of copyrighted or licensed software or data.
• Patrons are responsible for damage to library hardware or software due to inappropriate actions or inaction while using the computers. Fees will be assessed and charged to the patron for required repairs or replacement.
• The library is not responsible for any damage to patron data that is being accessed with library equipment, or for any damage to patron equipment plugged in to library outlets or USB ports, or connected to the library’s public wifi.

• While our public computers are on a secure network, patrons should exercise caution when sharing sensitive information like credit card or social security numbers.  The library is not responsible for any theft of personal information or monetary loss that results from the use of our public computers.  The library discourages patrons from sharing any personal data at all when using our public wifi, because this network is not secure.

• Children below the age of 8 must be accompanied by an adult or guardian when using Children’s computers.
• There is a fee for printing.
• Patrons may not turn off computers.
• Electrical outlets for patron laptops are available at designated places throughout the building. Patrons must ensure that their use of these outlets does not pose a tripping hazard.
• Patrons may charge, via USB, personal devices like cell phones, mp3 players and tablets at public Internet stations, provided they a) are logged in to the computer, and b) attend to their device. Patrons looking for an electrical outlet must use the outlets set aside for laptops (see above).

Misuse or abuse of library resources may result in suspension of library privileges.

Internet Policy

1. Purpose of this Policy
   To fulfill its mission of providing public access to all types of information in a variety of formats, the Manchester City Library provides access to Internet resources via library equipment and free WiFi access during library hours. This policy provides rules for Internet use at all Manchester City Library locations.
2. Who May Use the Internet?
   1. All patrons, including non-Manchester residents, are allowed to use the Internet.
      a. Patrons with a library card may use it to log in to our computers.
      ​b. Patrons without a library card, may be issued a one-hour guest pass for Internet use, valid only on the day of issue.
3. Use of the Internet
   1. Maximum use per person is 60 minutes per day. Access to WiFi is unrestricted via patron’s own device, and requires no library card or guest pass to use.
   2. The Librarian reserves the right to end a patron’s Internet session at any time, for reasons such as policy enforcement, violation of the library’s code of conduct, or computer maintenance.
   3. No more than two people may work at a Library Internet station at any one time.
   4. Internet workstations may be used for viewing, printing, and downloading information for lawful purposes, including educational, research, and recreational use. Users are responsible for complying with Federal, State, and local laws, including copyright restrictions.
   5. All users will be charged per page for printing. Wireless printing is available at the main library.
   6. Library staff can provide basic assistance with Internet and computer use. More in-depth help can be provided based on staff availability. Patrons who need additional support may request one-on-one tutoring, which can be scheduled as staff time allows.
   7. Children’s Room Internet stations are for use only by children up to age 11.
   8. Teen Room Internet stations are for use only by teens ages 12-17.
   9. The library reserves the right to ask users to refrain from displaying images which are inappropriate for public viewing.
   10. Patrons using library computers or their own personal devices for listening must use their own headphones, earbuds, or similar listening equipment, and must follow the Respect for Staff, Users and Library Property Policy.
   11. The Internet offers unlimited global access to information. The Manchester City library is unable to monitor or control the content of material through this medium. Parents/guardians of children under 18 are responsible for their children’s use of the Internet.
4. Failure to Abide by This Policy
   1. Abuse of Internet services can result in loss of library privileges.
   2. Willful and malicious damage to equipment will result in suspension of library services and/or prosecution of criminal charges [RSA 202- A:24].