In accordance with our mission to serve our community as a center for learning, education, culture, entertainment and discourse accessible to all, the Hotchkiss Library of Sharon provides free computer / Internet access to all Library patrons through public computers and WiFi connected to the Internet during regular hours of operation and, when closed, through wireless internet access, accessible outside.

The Library strives to maintain internet access via library computers, networks, and wireless access at all times the Library is open. Wi-Fi access may be available outside the Library building, on Library grounds when the Library is closed. Downtimes may occasionally occur.

Responsibilities of the Library

Library staff assists users with library-owned computers, printers, library software, downloadable library apps, and general internet use. Library staff may be able to assist users with patron-owned hardware, phones, other devices, or software questions. Library staff also may direct users to library or internet resources, or training classes, that can help users with devices and software.

Computer use information, as well as library cardholder information, is confidential.

The Internet is an unregulated, global information network. The Library cannot control the information available through the Internet and is not responsible for its content.

The Library assumes no responsibility for loss of data, or for damages sustained by any patron who connects a flash drive or electronic device to a Library computer, laptop, printer, or copier. The Library assumes no responsibility for any liability that may occur from patron use of a computer or mobile device or the Library’s network.

Public Computer Use

The Hotchkiss Library of Sharon has desktop computers reserved for public use, as well as laptops available for use inside the Library.

Daily use is limited to 60 minutes, or 30 minutes, if patrons are waiting.

Printing costs: .25 per page or side (8.5 x 11 inches)

Patrons must sign in with the circulation desk before using a Library computer.

Headphones must be used to listen to sound on the public computers.

Library computers are primarily intended for research and educational use. Interactive internet gaming is not permitted on Library devices.

Users may not:

• overuse bandwidth
• attempt to disrupt or gain access to the Library’s computer systems or networks
• change network, computer or device settings
• access restricted data, included so-called “hacking”
• damage Library equipment, software, or data
• access, view, or disseminate obscene material or child pornography

Responsibilities of the User

Users access and use the Internet at their own risk.

Users should evaluate Internet sources for accuracy and completeness of information.

Users are cautioned that ideas, opinions, and images can be found on the Internet that are controversial, misleading, and inflammatory. The Library does not endorse or sanction the content of any information or commentary that may be found on the Internet. The Library cannot protect individuals from information and images that might find offensive or disturbing.

Users should be aware that they are working in a public environment shared by people of all ages and sensibilities. Please be sensitive to the values and beliefs of other patrons when displaying potentially controversial information or images on public computer screens.

Users must exercise caution in sharing personal information on the Internet. The Library cannot guarantee the security of personal information on or with non-Library sites. Users should delete all personal information from the computer at the end of their session by logging out of any personal accounts.

Children’s Computer Use and Internet Access

No child under the age of 12 may be left unaccompanied at the Library.

Responsibility for, and any restriction of, a child’s (under18) access to Internet-accessible computers rests solely with the child’s parent(s), caregiver(s), or legal guardian.

Internet Filtering

In compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) [Pub. L. 106-554 and 47 USC 254(h)], the Library filters Internet data on all of its computers and mobile devices, and all access to the Internet through its network, to protect against access to obscene visual depictions, child pornography, and /or other material harmful to minors, as required by law.

The term “obscene” as defined in 18 USC Section 1460.

The term “child pornography” as defined in 18 USC Section 2256.

The term “harmful to minors” as defined in 47 USC Section 254 [G].

Filtering software is by its very nature imperfect. Therefore, the Library has chosen to employ the minimum level of filtering that will allow for CIPA compliance. This level of Internet filtering has been provided to the Library by the Connecticut Education Network.

The filter may unintentionally block sites that have legitimate research value and fail to block objectionable content. Library patrons should be aware that Internet filtering software installed for CIPA compliance should not substitute for individual judgment and/or parental involvement and oversight.

As required by CIPA, filters may be disabled for adults 18 years or older who request it for bona fide research or any other lawful purpose. Users may speak to a librarian to request unblocking of a blocked site.

Copyright infringement

Copyright law of the United States (Title 17, US Code) protects created works. Except as permitted by fair use or other copyright exemptions, Internet users may not reproduce, download, display, or distribute copyrighted materials.

Misuse or abuse of the computers or Internet access will result in the suspension of access privileges.

Adopted by the Hotchkiss Library of Sharon Board of Directors, November 20, 2021