“The Mark Twain Library is an inviting meeting place for all, using its resources efficiently to meet the community’s common needs for general information; cultural, social and intellectual enrichment; and self-directed learning.”

The Mark Twain Library welcomes its users to the use of its electronic resources and provides the following guidelines for the use of the Internet.

Recognizing that the content and format of the information provided on the Internet is constantly changing, we hope to provide, from time to time, instruction on the use of the various websites which we think are helpful.

We have printed information available for library users which we will be happy to share. Please do not hesitate to ask any of our staff for assistance in the use of our computers, or for guidance on finding your way around the Internet.

As a strong supporter of First Amendment rights for each individual, and in accordance with the attached American Library Association’s resolution on Internet filters, the Mark Twain Library does not block access to the Internet. We strongly support the right of each person to monitor his or her own Internet use, and we firmly believe that each parent has the right and the responsibility to be aware of his or her own child’s use of the Internet.

We expect that courtesy and respect for the rights of others will be honored by all users of the Mark Twain Library’s Internet capabilities.

   II.  GUIDELINES

1. In support of the Mark Twain Library’s mission to “…meet the community’s common needs for general information…and self-directed learning,” access to the Internet is provided to our users.
2. In offering Internet access, the Mark Twain Library assumes responsibility only for the information provided on its home page and supporting web pages. The Mark Twain Library does not monitor or have control over information that can be accessed over the Internet. Although many valuable local, national, and international sources are available on the Internet, not all sources are accurate, complete, current, or appropriate for all users.
3. Individuals are responsible for the Internet sites they choose to access. The parents, guardians, or caregivers of children under 12 are responsible for sites accessible to those children.
4. Computers with Internet access are available on a first-come, first-served basis to Mark Twain Library users. The Library reserves the right to institute a 30-minute time limit on use. Users under the age of 15 are required to have a signed Permission Agreement on file at the Mark Twain Library and those under 12 must have a responsible adult accompany their use of the computer.
5. Computer users must follow the Library’s approved policies, guidelines, and procedures when using the Mark Twain Library computers.
6. Acceptable use includes:
   
   1. Respecting the privacy of others using these resources.
   2. Using electronic resources in a manner consistent with the educational and informational purposes for which they are provided.
7. Unacceptable use includes (but is not limited to):
   
   1. Installation or downloading of software.
   2. Violation of Copyright Law (Title 17, U.S. Code).
   3. Damaging or altering the hardware or software components of our network or databases.
   4. Sending, receiving or displaying of inappropriate material which may be reasonably construed as obscene.
   5. Chat-room use is not available.