Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District

The Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District
Policy for Access to Electronic Information Networks

Electronic Networks and the Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District's Mission

Libraries make it possible for citizens to have access to the information they need to make informed decisions. As a member of the Illinois Library and Information Network (ILLINET), the Winnetka-Northfield Library is committed to sound public policy that maximizes the use of the resources of all types of libraries. Every library user benefits from expanded access to information beyond the four walls of a single library building.

The Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District and all ILLINET libraries use electronic information networks such as the Internet for a variety of purposes: access to shared automation systems that provide bibliographic access to the collections of the local library and libraries in the region and across the state; access to the wealth of information resources available via the Internet; access to general and specialized shared licensed databases available to ILLINET member libraries through regional and statewide cooperative programs.

Relationship to Other Library Policies

The Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District's Policy for Access to Electronic Information Networks is part of the District's overall policy structure and should be interpreted in conjunction with other existing policies. Copies of all Library policies are available upon request from a reference librarian.

"Global" Versus "Local" Resources

Most resources available via the Internet and other electronic information networks are "global" rather than "local" resources. The Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District does not and can not control the information content available through global resources via the Internet. Internet resources enhance and supplement resources available locally within a library. Library users must be aware that the Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District does not exercise control over information obtained via the Internet and must keep in mind the following points when evaluating information obtained via the Internet:

Information obtained via the Internet may or may not be reliable and may or may not be obtained from a reliable source.
Information obtained via the Internet may or may not be accurate.br>
Information obtained via the Internet may or may not be current and up-to-date.
Links to information on the Internet may not always be valid, and particular sites on the Internet may sometimes be unavailable. This unavailability often occurs unpredictably.
Certain information obtained via the Internet may be considered controversial by some library patrons.

The Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District urges library patrons to be informed consumers and to carefully evaluate information obtained on the Internet. Library staff may be available to assist patrons in making judgments about the reliability or currency of certain types of Internet information sources but are unable to provide definitive analysis of particular sources due to the extremely large variety and volume of information available via the Internet.

The Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District is not responsible for damages, indirect or direct, arising from a Library patron's use of Internet information resources.

Library Patrons' Rights

Library patrons have certain rights with respect to use of electronic information networks such as the Internet. The Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District will work with other libraries in the Illinois Library and Information Network to preserve and protect these rights, subject to limitations imposed by licensing and payment agreements with database providers.

Library patrons have the right to confidentiality and privacy in the use of electronic information networks to the extent possible given certain constraints such as proximity of other patrons and staff in public access settings.
Library patrons have the right to equitable access to electronic information networks.
Library patrons have the right to access and read all Library service policies and discuss questions with appropriate Library staff.

Patron Assistance and Instruction

The Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District's staff may provide assistance to patrons in the use of electronic information networks as time and staff knowledge permit. Printed reference tools are available at or near the reference desk. Individualized instruction in particular aspects of the electronic information network is available upon request as time permits.

Use of Equipment and Networks

The Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District requires library patrons using electronic information networks such as the Internet to do so within the guidelines of acceptable use. The following activities are unacceptable:

use of electronic information networks for any purpose that results in the harassment of other users
destruction of, or damage to, or unauthorized alteration of the library's computer equipment, software or network security procedures
use of electronic information networks in any way that violates a Federal or State law
use of electronic information networks in any way that violates licensing and payment agreements between the Winnetka Public Library District and network/database providers
unauthorized duplication of copy protected software or violation of software license agreements
violation of security system
violation of the privacy of another user or library patron
behavior that is disruptive to other users, including but not limited to denying access to other users through overuse of computer equipment

Children's Access to Electronic Information Networks

The Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District supports the right of all Library users to access information and will not deny access to electronic information networks based solely on age.

The Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District recognizes that the electronic information networks such as the Internet may contain material that is inappropriate for children. Parents are expected to monitor and supervise their children's use of the Internet. Library staff is unable to monitor children's use. Parents are encouraged to discuss with their children issues of appropriate use and electronic information network safety.

Breach of Policy

Violation of any aspect of this policy may result in the restriction or loss of library privileges.

Adopted by the Board of Trustees February 17, 1997
Revised: June 17, 2002

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