Who May Use the Library

Anyone may use the library free of charge, and then borrow materials by acquiring a Southworth Library Card. I.D. with a current address is required. Children ages 5-12 need to have a parent accompanying them when obtaining a Library card.

Internet

The Internet, as an information resource, enables the Library to provide information beyond the confines of its own collection. It allows access to ideas, information and commentary from around the globe. It enhances the Library's existing collection in size and depth.

Currently, however, the Internet is an unregulated medium. As such while it offers access to a wealth of material that is personally, professionally, and culturally enriching to individuals of all ages, it also enables access to some material that may be offensive, disturbing and/or illegal. It is not possible to apply the same selection criteria which are used for other materials. The Library cannot control or monitor the vast amount of material which may be accessible from Internet sources. Individual users and/or parents must accept responsibility for determining the reliability, suitability and appropriateness of Internet content.

Ensuring equal access to electronic resources to those who lack private access is part of the Library's strategic plan. Public access Internet work stations at the Library are provided as a measure of the Library's commitment to ensuring equal access to all.

The Library affirms the right and responsibility of parents to determine and monitor their children's use of Library materials and resources. While the Library will make every effort to ensure the use of the Internet is consistent with the Mission Statement, parents are encouraged to work closely with their children in selecting material that is consistent with personal and family values and boundaries.

Internet Usage Policy

  1. Library patrons may use the Internet if they possess a valid Southworth Library card in good standing.
  2. Anyone 16 years old and under must have a parent sign their user agreement form which will be kept on file in the library.
  3. Prospective users will be required to sign in before using the Internet indicating their acceptance of the Library Internet Policy.
  4. Users must limit their Internet time to 15/30 minutes.
  5. Patrons should have basic Internet skills. The Library staff cannot provide in-depth training concerning the Internet.
  6. All Internet stations will be logged off 15 minutes prior to closing.
  7. Users may not install their own software, download any files, or save any files on the Library computers' hard drive. The Library reserves the right to remove any files that have inadvertently ended up on the computer.
  8. Users may not change the location or configuration of the programs, files or documents on the hard drive or on the desktop. Tampering with, altering, editing or damaging the computer hardware, and/or software will be grounds for revocation of Internet privileges and may result in suspension of Library privileges.
  9. Accessing of pornography on the Internet is forbidden.

Loan Periods

Books, books on tape, and magazines are loaned out for a 3-week period and can be renewed in person or by telephone. Our new adult books are limited to a 2-week loan period and are not renewable. Videos, only three per adult card, are loaned for one week. Circulating Reference Books are limited to a 1-week loan period.

Patrons may place holds on any circulating item in our library and in the Finger Lakes Library System at no charge.

Fines

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