The Oconee County Library is committed to its patrons’ right to access information. Because of this commitment the Library wishes to make available to our public information resources of all formats. The Library recognizes the impact of technology, specifically electronic communication and information, upon the lives of the residents of Oconee County. The Library strives to provide access to, provide instruction in the use of, identify, retrieve, and organize technology in its various formats.
To that end and within the confines of its budget, the Library strives to make available electronic information resources that will meet our public’s need. It is not possible to meet all requests or to grant access to everyone.
Public-use computers are available in each of the County Library’s fixed service points. Use is limited to library-supplied software. Internet access to our catalog and other selected resources is available as well.
Information regarding home access to any licensed databases made available to the public will be given to any library cardholder, preferably in person. Delivery of the access and password information by telephone is acceptable, so long as the person’s status as a library cardholder can be confirmed. We will not give this information to patrons without a library card, nor will we deliver this information via Internet e-mail or other public lists. Only basic search assistance and connection troubleshooting will be given by library staff over the telephone, and must be during normal hours of library operation.
A. TECHNOLOGY STRATEGIC PLAN
The technology strategy for the Oconee County Library System is to meet the following objectives:
• Use technology to provide the most appropriate information delivery system.
• Use technology to control cost and improve the efficiency of library operations.
• Maintain flexibility to adapt new and changing technology to meet the public’s needs.
• Evaluate emerging technology for effective responsiveness to the public’s needs.
• Use technology to connect to relevant sources outside the library.
• Train staff and educate the public on how to use technology to retrieve the information needed.
• Provide equitable access to electronic information databases.
B. USE OF INTERNET IN OCPL LIBRARIES
1. SERVICE OBJECTIVES
The Mission Statement of OCPL is “The Oconee County Public Library connects our diverse communities with information resources that enrich, enlighten, and entertain.”
In order to fulfill that mission, OCPL provides access to an extensive range of informational, educational, and recreational resources through its public computers and wireless Internet connection.
2. RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF USERS OF OCPL PUBLIC COMPUTERS AND THE INTERNET
The following Computer Acceptable Use Agreement must be accepted electronically by anyone using OCPL public computers.
Oconee County Public Library (OCPL) Computer Acceptable use Agreement
I understand and accept that:
1. in order to use OCPL computers I must present my own valid OCPL library card.
2. I will abide by the policies and rules stated below.
3. if I do not abide by the policies and rules, I may be barred from using OCPL computers and may be subject to legal action.
4. OCPL staff can help me with a specific computer/Internet problem but OCPL staff cannot spend excessive time providing me with help.
5. as a parent or legal guardian of a minor child, my child may use the OCPL computers and that I am responsible to see that my child abides by the policies and rules stated below.
• I understand that some material on the Internet may be objectionable, but I accept the responsibility and agree to allow my child, aged 12 through 17 to use OCPL computers. I agree to allow my child under age 12 to use OCPL computers only if I or another adult accompanies them. I understand that if my child does not abide by the policies and rules he/she may be barred from using the OCPL computers.
6. information on the Internet may be current and accurate, or it may be out-of-date, unreliable, or unavailable at times. I understand that materials on the Internet may contain items that are illegal, inaccurate, defamatory, and potentially offensive and/or disturbing to some people. I understand that OCPL cannot be held liable for the content of any Internet site.
7. OCPL cannot be held liable for equipment failures.
Internet Safety Policy:
While the OCPL reaffirms the right of youths and adults to access information, in order to comply with CIPA (the Children’s Internet Protection Act) [Pub. L. No. 106-554 and 47 USC 254(h)], the Oconee County Public Library employs technological protective measures (commonly known as “Internet filters”) to filter incoming Internet access on both public wired terminals AND our wireless (WI-FI) network.
• To the extent practical, “filters” will be used to block access to inappropriate information. Specifically, as required by CIPA, blocking shall be applied to visual depictions of material deemed obscene or child pornography, or to any material deemed harmful to minors.
• To the extent practical, steps shall be taken to promote the safety and security of users of the OCPL online computer network when using electronic mail, chat rooms, instant messages, and other forms of direct electronic communications. Specifically, as required by CIPA, prevention of inappropriate network usage includes (a) unauthorized access, including so-called “hacking,” and other unlawful activities, and (b) unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors.
Policies:
• Users will have a daily maximum of three (3) 45 minute sessions on OCPL computers. The only exception is for users who are taking a test or filling out a job application and the institution will not allow for interruptions in the process.
• Users who do not abide by the policies and rules will be warned twice. At the third offense, they will be barred from OCPL facilities for three months.
o First offense – verbal warning and note placed on user’s record.
o Second offense – verbal warning and note placed on user’s record. User will also receive a written warning, according to OCPL banning procedures. If user is under age 18, their parent/guardian will be notified.
o Third offense – user will be blocked from using OCPL computers, and will, according to the Code of Conduct and OCPL banning procedures, be barred from all library locations at the discretion of the Director for a period of three months. If user is under age 18, their parent/guardian will be notified.
• Computers in Children’s areas are to be used by children under age 12 only.
• Users may not establish email or other accounts which are stored on OCPL computers.
• Non-residents of Oconee County may be issued a daily guest pass upon presentation of a valid photo identity card.
• OCPL computer system uses filtering software as required by the South Carolina Legislature in Budget Proviso 72.95. According to the Proviso a patron may request an unfiltered library computer. The request must be made one business day in advance in order for the IT Department to disable the filtering software. (See “Internet Safety Policy” above.)
• All computers will be shut down ½ hour before closing time (15 minutes before closing time at the Salem Branch Library).
• Black and white printing is 15 cents a page and color printing is 50 cents a page.
Rules:
• The following actions will not be allowed:
o Sending or displaying obscene or disruptive messages, files, or images
o Using obscene language
o Changing or adding files to the OCPL computer system
o Harassing, insulting, or attacking others
o Violating copyright laws, or software license agreements
o Using personal software or downloading or installing software on OCPL computer system.
o Bypassing or demonstrating to others how to bypass filtering software.
• No more than two users may use one computer at the same time.
3. RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF USERS OF OCPL WIRELESS INTERNET NETWORK
Use of OCPL’s Wireless Network specifically, but without limitation, constitutes the users agreement to the following Policy:
OCPL WIRELESS INTERNET ACCESS ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY
The Oconee County Public Library (“OCPL”) offers wireless access (Wi-Fi) for library patrons to use with their own personal notebooks, laptops, and other mobile devices. Handouts are available at the circulation desk with basic information about the service.
Wireless access is available to both library patrons and visitors. A library card is not currently required. There are no age requirements or restrictions: however, parents or guardians of children under 18 years of age should take responsibility in supervising their children’s proper and safe use of the Internet.
§ Wireless users are subject to existing library policies concerning computer/Internet use and public behavior where applicable. Use of OCPL’s public wireless networks constitutes the user’s agreement to and acceptance of all such policies, including these. The OCPL reserves the right to restrict or terminate access of any user to any OCPL network at any time for any reason, or no reason. OCPL will not be liable for any risk or liability for any such termination. Use of OCPL’s Networks specifically, but without limitation, constitutes the users agreement to such policies.
§ All OCPL wireless access points are accessible 24 hours a day.
§ OCPL’s public wireless networks are filtered according to state and Federal regulations (See “Internet Safety Policy” above). However, users are responsible for safeguarding their own personal devices. Use of the wireless connection is done at the patron’s own risk. The Library is not responsible for ensuring your privacy or the safety of your data or hardware while connected to our wireless network.
§ Access to the wireless network is on a first-come, first-served basis. During high-use periods, access may be slow or unavailable. There are a limited number of electrical outlets available within the Library branches. Patrons are encouraged to bring back-up batteries for mobile device use.
§ The Library accepts no responsibility for any software downloaded and/or installed, email opened, or sites accessed while patrons are on the wireless internet connection. Patron specifically agrees to release the County of Oconee and the Oconee County Public Library from all liabilities associated with the viewing of, use of, or exposure to any information while using the wireless network, or associated with the use of the wireless network, generally.
§ Library staff are available to provide general information or handouts for connecting your device to the wireless network, but cannot troubleshoot problems related to your wireless device or assist in setting up wireless internet on your computer. Nor can Library staff make any changes to your device’s network settings and/or hardware configuration. The Library cannot guarantee that your device will work with the Library’s wireless access points.
§ Printing access is not available via the wireless connection. If you need to print, please save your work to a USB flash drive, or email files to yourself, then login to a wired library workstation and send jobs to the public printer (printing costs $0.15 a page for black ink, and $0.50 per page for color prints).
§ Parents or guardians, not the Library or its staff, are solely responsible for the internet information selected and /or accessed by their children. The OCPL and its staff will not monitor nor enforce such access.
§ The Library does not actively monitor your connection; however, users who are discovered, by staff or other patrons, to be viewing inappropriate content or performing illegal activities, may be asked to cease using the wireless network or leave the building, and may be reported to the proper authorities.
bh 05/07/2012 OCPL Policy Manual revised to include CIPA information as required by the South Carolina State Library.
4. USE OF COMPUTER RESOURCES BY STAFF
Access to computer resources provided by the Oconee County Library imposes certain responsibilities and obligations on employees and is subject to local, state, and federal laws. Acceptable use is always ethical, reflects honesty, and shows restraint in the consumption of shared resources. It demonstrates respect for intellectual property, ownership of information, system security mechanisms, and the individual’s rights to privacy and freedom from intimidation, harassment, and unwarranted annoyance.
The following guidelines apply to hardware, software, and network access.
1. Employees will use only legal, library-supplied software.
2. Personal use will be on the employee’s own time.
3. Personal use will not interfere with the work-related activity of the employee or of other
staff;
4. Employees may not use the library’s resources for any monetary gain or commercial
venture;
5. Employees may not allow family or friends to use library computer resources that are
not available to the public;
6. Employees will not use resources for any illegal activities, and will honor copyright
restrictions;
7. Employees will pay for any personal copies or printouts;
8. Employees will maintain and secure appropriate passwords;
9. Employees acknowledge that the library retains ownership of all hardware and software
associated with use of computer resources;
10. The use of computer games for personal interest is not permitted on library time.
11. Employees may not listen to Internet radio stations on county computers.
12. Employees must also abide by the Oconee County Computer/ Internet/E-mail Policy.
Because computer resources contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of our work, the Library provides access and training in use to the staff.
Employees who abuse computer facilities are subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.
C. OCPL SOCIAL MEDIA AND NETWORKING POLICY
Recognizing that social networking sites like blogs, Twitter, and Facebook are effective tools to promote the Oconee County Public Library, this policy establishes guidelines for the implementation and use of social media and applies to any library-related social networking activities whether during or outside of library time, and whether on a library computer or an employee’s personal computer or electronic communication device. The absence of, or lack of explicit reference to, a specific site does not limit the extent of the application of this policy.
1. The OCPL approved social networking strategies may not extend to unrelated conversation or links, including but not limited to staff personal conversations and/or personal links by staff not associated with the core business of the function of the Library.
2. The Youth Services Librarian, Branch Services Librarian, branch managers, or other designee will be responsible for maintaining the social networking site(s). The social networking site(s) should be updated in a timely manner whenever there is new programming to promote, new materials are received, notices regarding library closures, or an update is needed concerning things outside the library, such as State Library programs, new databases for homework, etc.
3. The site(s) must be moderated at all times. Comments, if applicable, should be carefully screened before they are published to the web. A screening process must be used. Instant posting of comments should be disabled if possible, such as with blogs. Reviews of books may be candid, but must be in good taste with no profanity allowed. Again, these should be screened before they are published if possible. It will be the responsibility of the site’s/sites’ “owner” to make sure this is done properly.
4. The site(s) will be linked to the OCPL website so it may be viewed by all patrons (except in the case of Facebook or Twitter, etc., that require additional passwords or individual accounts). Recognizing that such site(s) will be less formal and more conversational, care should still be taken to maintain a professional tone. Harassment, discrimination, profanity, and other disruptive behavior will not be tolerated. Employees are prohibited from publishing, revealing, or otherwise disclosing any confidential or proprietary information to which they may be privy. Nothing in this policy is meant to supersede OCPL general policies concerning staff internet usage or Oconee County policies concerning computer use by staff.
5. Employees should consult with their supervisor, department head, or the Director if they are uncertain whether an activity is permissible. Failure to abide by this policy may result in discipline, up to and including termination without prior notice or discipline.
D. SPECIAL TECHNOLOGIES
Oconee County Public Library
Telescope Lending Policy
1. The Library’s telescope kit can be checked out by an Oconee County Public Library card holder who is 18 years of age or older AND in good standing (no outstanding fines, fees, or overdue items). The patron must present a driver’s license to confirm identification and sign the Telescope Lending Agreement each time the Telescope is borrowed. The Library check the patron’s photo ID and keep a copy of the signed Telescope Lending Agreement.
2. The Telescope can be checked out for seven days with one renewal if no one else is on the waiting list for the telescope.
3. The telescope must be given directly to library staff when returned. DO NOT leave the Telescope outside of the library or in the library’s lobby, or leave it unattended at the library’s circulation desk. If the Telescope is left unattended outside of the library, the patron will be charged a $25 fee for unnecessary risk to the Telescope.
4. The overdue fine for the Telescope is $1.00 per day.
5. If the Telescope is more than 14 days overdue the patron will be charged $300.00 for the telescope kit. This fee will be waived if the telescope kit is returned intact; however, overdue fees will not be waived. If the telescope kit is returned with damage or missing items a fee will be assessed and could result in charges up to the total cost of the kit ($300.00).
6. The telescope may not be loaned to anyone other than the borrower who signs the agreement on the other side of this policy. Do not allow children to play with this device without adult supervision.
7. Please treat the telescope kit with care, keeping it in a clean, dry, dust-free place and safe from liquids, extreme temperatures, and from being dropped. All covers should be kept attached to the telescope when not in use. Do not attempt to clean the telescope with any chemicals or liquid or store the telescope outdoors. Keep the dust caps on the front of the telescope and on the focuser when not in use. Make sure to turn off the range finder when not using it.
8. The telescope may be reserved by calling the main library at 864-638-4133 or visiting the library.
9. The telescope kit includes 1 Orion StarBlaster Telescope; 1 laminated manual; 1 stargazing book; 1 moon map; 1 telescope carrying case; 1 lens cleaner; 1 headlamp; and 3 cords attached to dust caps and related items.
10. The borrower is responsible for reading the instruction manual for proper care and use, and the Oconee County Public Library will not be held liable for any injuries incurred as a result of telescope use.
11. Do not look directly at the sun with the telescope. Permanent eye damage could result.
Oconee County Public Library
Telescope Lending Agreement
I, __________________________________________________, have read the complete Oconee County Public Library Telescope Lending Agreement and take full responsibility for the Telescope Kit I am checking out.
________________________________________ __________________________ ________________
Signature of Patron Patron Library Card Number Checkout Date
STAFF USE ONLY
Checkout
Staff member name: ___________________________________ Date & Time:_________________________
Device: ? Telescope Kit # _____________________________
-Telescope is functional with no damage
-Telescope accessories (dust caps, etc.) are fully attached via their cords
-Telescope is inside its carrying case
-All materials are included (laminated manual, Stargazing Guide, Moon Map, lens cleaner, and headlamp.)
-Visually checked photo ID
-Patron contact info confirmed
-Copy of this completed agreement given to patron
Check In
Staff member name: _____________________________________ Time: ________________________
-Telescope is functional with no damage
-Telescope accessories (dust caps, etc.) are fully attached via their cords
-Telescope is inside its carrying case
-All materials are included (laminated manual, Stargazing Guide, Moon Map, lens cleaner, and headlamp.)
-Telescope returned directly to library staff member
-$ _____ late fine recorded in LS2Staff: paid YES or NO (circle)
-$25 unnecessary risk fee recorded in LS2Staff: paid YES or NO (circle)
Damage noted:
-$_____ Damage fee recorded in LS2Staff: paid YES or NO (circle)
3D PRINTER POLICY & PROCEDURES
The Oconee County Public Library is committed to offering community access to emerging technologies, such as 3D printing, to inspire a new interest in creation and collaboration at your library. We wish to help the community bring their creations to life. This policy establishes how and under what circumstances the public may use the library’s 3D printer.
Policy
The Oconee County Public Library’s 3D printer is available to OCPL card-holders to make three-dimensional objects in plastic using a design that is uploaded from a digital computer file.
1. The library’s 3D printer may be used for lawful purposes only. Patrons will not be permitted to use the library’s 3D printer to create material that is:
2. The library reserves the right to refuse any 3D print request.
3. Cost: 3D printing at the library will cost $1.00 per print job and $.50 per hour to offset the cost of the filament.
4. Items printed from the 3D printer that are not picked up within 7 days will become the property of the library. Items must be picked up by the individual who printed them.
5. Patrons may only use the printer alongside designated library staff or volunteer coaches.
6. Patrons wishing to use the 3D printer must have a library card in good standing.
7. Supervision of the use of the 3D printer by library staff does not constitute knowledge, or acknowledgement, of any unapparent final use of the 3D product, and the library specifically disclaims any knowledge thereof.
Procedures
The procedure for printing from the Library’s 3D printer is as follows:
Definitions
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3D Printer Request Form
Oconee County Public Library
By signing this statement, I am indicating that I understand the terms of OCPL’s 3D Printer Policy and Procedures and agree to abide by its stipulations. I relinquish any responsibility on behalf of the Oconee County Public Library’s liability in the printing process or the use of the printed object.
_________________________________ _____________________________________
Printed Name Printed Parent/Guardian Name (if applicable)
_________________________________
Library card #
_________________________________ ____________________________________
Signature Parent/Guardian Signature (if applicable)
_______________________________
Date
________________________________________________________________________
Email for acknowledgment of printing project/details. Estimated costs and time-frame for printed project will be emailed to this address.
Description of Object to be printed:
Please leave a flash drive with print job saved in .stl format. The flash drive will be returned when print job is ready to be picked up. OCPL is not responsible for any lost files or damage to flash drive.
Launchpad Lending Agreement
I, ____________________________, have read the complete Oconee County Public Library Launchpad Lending Agreement and take full responsibility for the Launchpad I am checking out.
_______________ _____________________ ___________
Signature of Patron Patron Library Card Number Checkout Date
STAFF USE ONLY
Check Out
Staff Member Name: ____________________ Date & Time: ____________________
Device Barcode Number: _______________________________
Launchpad Title: _____________________________________
Patron’s account has been verified as having NO FINES. YES or NO (circle)
Check In
Staff Member Name: ____________________ Date & Time: ____________________
DAMAGE NOTED: (Also note this damage on patron account)
Launchpad Lending Policy
** Each Launchpad kit includes 1 Carrying Case, 1 Launchpad, 1 Orange Protective Sleeve,
1 USB Cord, and 1 Charging AC adapter.
Amended 9/25/17