Child Safety On The Internet

Minor children who use the Internet without supervision may be exposed to inappropriate or disturbing information and images. They may also be the targets of crime and exploitation. The responsibility for discussing use of the Internet in relation to family values and boundaries resides with the child's parent or guardian. As with other Library resources, supervision or restriction of a child's access to the Internet remains the responsibility of a parent or guardian.

Parents may want to visit GetNetWise for tips on how to reduce the risks for their children.

In order to support parents and guardians in their efforts to guide their children's use of the Internet, the Library also offers Internet classes and lists of resources especially developed for parents and children. The Library's online catalog Kids' Library includes direct access by title and subject to many websites appropriate for children.

Patron Responsibility

Patrons are cautioned that Library computers are located in public areas, which must be shared by Library users of all ages, backgrounds and sensibilities. Privacy is not ensured. Patrons are asked to keep this in mind and to respect others when accessing information and images. Patrons may not use a Library computer to transmit or receive illegal (including harmful or obscene) or disruptive material. Patrons are expected to respect intellectual property rights by making only authorized copies of copyrighted or licensed software or data residing on the Internet. Sanctions may be in the form of a warning or request to leave the Library building or a call to the police or other legal action as, in each instance, seems most appropriate.

The Library does not control information found on the Internet and, therefore cannot be held responsible for its content. Since the Internet is not private or secure patrons are advised to use caution when sending personal information such as name, address, social security number, credit card number, etc. over the Internet. The Library expressly disclaims any liability or responsibility for any damages or obligations, direct or indirect, arising from its connections to the Internet or use of its computers.

Library staff will show patrons how to access electronic resources and the Internet and explain basic navigational commands. Lengthy one-on-one tutorials are not possible due to staffing constraints. Patrons may want to use print resources available in the collection for additional information on using electronic resources and are encouraged to attend Internet classes at the Library or in the community. Searching suggestions are provided through print directories in the collection, links from the Library's online catalog and webpage, as well as printed bibliographies.

All electronic resources accessible through the Library are provided equally to all patrons. Parents or legal guardians are responsible for electronic information selected and/or accessed by their minor children. Children also bear responsibility in using Library resources properly. Parents are advised to supervise their minor children's Internet and electronic sessions.

Adopted by the Kanawha County Public Library Board of Directors April 8, 1996, Amended by the Kanawha County Public Library Board of Directors on October 13, 1997 and September 10, 2001