Internet Policy & Procedures

Policy
In order to satisfy the information needs of the general public and in consideration of the latest in information technology, the Mahwah Public Library wishes to offer Internet services to its clientele. We are very pleased to be able to offer this type of resource to the community but must establish guidelines for its use. The library understands that certain materials available on the internet may not be suitable for all users and that some individuals may take offense to one or more facets of this service’s content. The Board of Trustees and administration of this institution ask that all those who use this research tool exercise proper discretion and consideration to others. The reference staff is available to offer assistance forming search strategies and in providing some technical support. This policy also applies to those who avail themselves of wireless Internet as offered by the library.

Procedures
  • The intent of offering patrons Internet access is to expand existing research tools.
  • Patrons must comply with copyright laws and intellectual property rights of others.
  • A patron does not have to be a resident of Mahwah to use the Internet terminals.
  • All children and young adults under the age of 18 must have a permission slip signed by parent or guardian. This form is to be filed at the reference desk for staff verification purposes. The presence of such forms must be noted under patron notes.
  • Children under the age of 14 are allowed use of the Internet with the supervision of a parent or guardian.
  • Patrons must register at the reference desk in order to use the terminals, indicating name, address and logon time. When completing a session, they must sign off indicating that time also.
  • Patrons are to be limited to search intervals of 30 min. on any public Internet terminal. They may continue searching if no one else is waiting to go online. Under no circumstances are patrons allowed to perform searches on staff terminals.
  • Patrons may print out materials on site for the cost of $.15 per page. They may also save data to their medium.
  • The Internet terminals will be visible to the public and staff. Accordingly, patrons are advised to exercise due propriety and good judgment in the types of materials and information searched and displayed in public areas.
  • Game playing is not permitted.
  • The Mahwah Public Library has a “0” tolerance policy with regard to accessing pornography on library PCs. Individuals accessing such sites will be denied Internet privileges. In addition, the Mahwah Police will be summoned if it is believed that information or images accessed are illegal.
  • It is the policy of the MPL not to install, on any of its terminals, filtering devices or other such programs which may inhibit the search process.
  • The user acknowledges that all data and files may not be secure and private.
  • Rules pertaining to use of Internet terminals are prominently displayed in patron areas.

Thank you!