Computers and Internet Use Policy

Want to use a computer?

For educational and informational use, the Dolton Public library makes available resources on the computer and Internet to enhance and supplement the resources that are available locally within our library.  The Dolton Public Library does not monitor and has no control over the information accessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its contents.

Information obtained via the Internet may or may not be reliable, accurate, or current.  Certain information obtained via the Internet may be considered offensive, disturbing, or controversial by some library patrons.  Library patrons use the Internet at their own discretion.  Parents are expected to monitor and supervise their children’s use of the Internet.  Library staff is unable to monitor children’s use.

The Dolton Public Library is not responsible for damages, indirect or direct, arising from a library patron’s use of the library’s Internet connection.

Staff will assist patrons with basic Internet use, as time permits, but cannot offer personal instruction.  The reference staff is available to help patrons locate books, periodicals and videos about the Internet.  The library does not directly provide electronic mail or access to news and discussion groups or chat rooms because other resources on the Internet provide these services.

Use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in a cancellation of this privilege.  Examples of inappropriate use include, but are not limited to:

  • Use which results in harassment of others
  • Destruction of, damage to, or unauthorized alteration of the library’s computer equipment, software or network security procedures
  • Violation of a Federal or State law
  • Use which violates licensing and payment agreements between the Dolton Public Library and their network/database providers
  • Unauthorized duplication of copy protected software or violation of software license agreements
  • Violation of system security
  • Behaving in a manner that is disruptive to other users, including, but not limited to, display of offensive visual material or overuse of computer equipment which serves to deny access to other users
  • Storage of data on the library computer’s hard drive (a USB flash drive may be used)
  • Use of personal software

Regulations

  • Internet access is available for use by patrons who present a valid ID (such as a Driver’s License or State ID) and have signed the Dolton Public Library Computer/Internet User Agreement.
  • Children under 12 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.  Users under 18 years of age MUST have parental permission to use the Internet Service provided by the Dolton Public Library.  A parent and the child must sign the Computer/Internet User Agreement in person in the library, upon presenting appropriate ID.
  • Users of the Internet microcomputers must comply with the regulations and booking procedures outlined in the Dolton Public Library’s Public Access Computer Rules.
  • Please Note:  If you are looking for information about our Wi-fi (Wireless) connection, please click here.

Fees

  • Dolton residents (with ID showing Dolton address) are scheduled for the Dolton computers and, as such, are not required to pay a fee to use the Internet.  The only time a fee may be applicable, is when the first computer room is unavailable.  In these instances a $1.00  per hour fee will be assessed to the patron for the non-Dolton computers or the typewriter.
  • There is a $1.00 per hour fee for non-residents on all computers.
  • Patrons who wish to print are required to purchase a Dolton Public Library District Print Card.  The current cost of the print card is $1, which is pre-loaded with $.50 worth of prints.  All patrons are required to pay a price of $.10 per black and white printout and $.25 per color printout.  Failure to pay for copies may ultimately result in suspension or termination of public computer use.  Only paper provided by the library may be used in our printers.
  • There is no cost for the use of the typewriter, however, patrons must supply their own paper.

The cost of printous assists the library in sustaining this service to the public and covers the cost of supplies such as toner and quality paper.  In an effort to be consistent and fair to each person, the computers may be used for one (1) hour blocks.  Additional fees may be assessed in instances where patrons use the computers longer than the hour allotted.  Fees are based on one (1) hour increments and are not prorated.  All patrons are given a Printout/Copy Receipt that provides a detail summary on the number of printouts they have obtained.  Printouts for the shared printers must be presented at the Circulation Desk for payment prior to receiving ID.

Policy

  • There are strict limitations on the number of people who may use the computer at one time.  There are also limitations on the number of people who are authorized to be in each computer room.  This policy has been established in an effort to be courteous to each patron as well as to adhere to fire and safety codes.  Parents must supervise children 12 and under, and may accompany a child under 18.
  • Headphones may be checked out at the Circulation Desk and checked in when use is finished.
  • There are no pre-reservations for computers. Computer time is allotted on a first-come-first-serve basis.
  • The final one (1) hour computer time of the day will be made at 90 minutes prior to the library’s closing time.  The final 15-minute express computer appointment of the day will be made at 45 minutes prior to the library’s closing time.
  • All internet and homework computer will be shut down at 30 minutes prior to the library’s closing time.
  • Any of the following forms of identification may be used for patrons wishing to gain Internet access:
    • Library Card
    • School ID (Must be Current)
    • Driver’s License
    • State ID
  • Patrons must not run their own software.
  • We can turn the computer and printer on for you.  Staff is not available for tutoring.  However, staff is available to help locate books and other materials on the Internet.
  • The Dolton Public Library will not be responsible for damage to patrons’ flash drives due to virus or contamination.
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