Computer Access Policy

The Little Falls Public Library is pleased to provide a number of computers for the public to use. Computers are equipped with the recent versions of software that include the Microsoft Office Suite and allow access to the internet. The public computers also have access to our library and the Mid York Library system’s catalog, through the website: midyork.org. Each computer is controlled by a software system called LibData, that allows all computer users equal access time and also prompts each computer to shut off ten minutes prior to the library closing. In order to access one of the public computers, patrons must meet the following criteria:

• Possess a valid Mid York Library System Card

• Have a library account in good standing. Patrons with fines over $5.00 or more will be barred from using the computers until the fine is below $5.00.

Or

• Have a valid photo identification card and are not a member of the Mid York Library System

In addition, the following policies apply:

1. Computers are available on a first come, first serve basis. Reservations are not accepted. If the computers are full and you need to use one, let the front desk staff know and they will not extend the current user’s time on the computer to allow you the chance to use the computer’s after other sessions are over.

2. Patrons must use their own library card to access a computer. Use of another patron’s card, including family members’, is prohibited, in all circumstances. Patrons found to be using another person’s library card may be barred from future computer access.

3. Patrons are automatically given one hour of computer use per day when they log on to the computer. If there is at least one other computer available at the time, patrons may receive one, thirty minute extension on their time. To ensure equal and open access to the computers, further extensions will not be granted unless special circumstances apply and are approved by the Library staff. In general, special circumstances refer to individuals taking exams or performing job or medical-related tasks, including work on a resume.

4. Children under the age of ten must be accompanied by an adult at all times and are encouraged to use the children’s iPads before using the computers.

5. Space permitting, no more than two people are allowed to share a computer. If all computers are in use, there can only be one person per computer, to allow for privacy and space between computers.

6. Headphones must be worn by patrons using the sound on a computer. They are available at the front desk for loan.

7. Patrons may not alter software configurations, load personal software onto computers, or download programs from the Internet. In compliance with the Federal Copyright Act, patrons may not duplicate copyrighted software or programs on library machines.

8. Patrons are responsible for any financial costs related to alterations or damage to the computers and related equipment resulting from misuse. In the case of minors using the computers, the guardian that has signed on behalf of the child for library card usage will be held responsible.

9. At the end of a computer session, the LibData software clears all the user's history. Therefore, patrons are not able to save files to the computer. Patrons wishing to save files must use a thumb drive. The Library is not responsible for any lost content.

10. Patrons must report any equipment or software problems immediately to Library Staff.

11. Library staff members are able to provide general assistance with the computers; however, they are unable to provide extensive personal instruction. Patrons needing in-depth instructions are encouraged to attend computer courses which are available upon request.

12. It is the policy of the Little Falls Public Library to: (a) prevent user access over its computer network to, or transmission of, inappropriate material via Internet, electronic mail, or other forms of direct electronic communications; (b) prevent unauthorized access and other unlawful online activity; (c) prevent unauthorized online disclosure, use, or dissemination of personal identification information of minors; and (d) comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act [Pub. L. No. 106-554 and 47 USC 254(h)]. The LibData software ensures that library users are unable to share or access such information as stated above.

Approved by the Board of Trustees March 18, 2025