Complete Internet Access and Use policy
Explanation of the rules for kids

In order to use Monterey Public Library's Internet service, you must follow the rules established by the Library Board of Trustees. If you do not follow these rules, you will not be permitted to use the Internet and you may be required to leave the Library.

Monterey Public Library does not monitor, control, sponsor or endorse the material you find on the Internet. The Library does not edit or restrict Internet information. Only you and your family have the right and responsibility to define what material or information is consistent with your personal and family beliefs.

If you are a child's parent or guardian, only you have the right and responsibility to restrict that child's use of Library resources, including the Internet. You are encouraged to supervise and to participate actively in your children's Internet use.

Library staff will help you use the Internet and locate the information you need. Because of other customer service responsibilities, staff members cannot provide Internet training, or help you set up, configure, or troubleshoot your wireless hardware or software.

The Library cannot guarantee your privacy when using the Internet. Respect the privacy of other Internet users, and do not attempt to show displayed material to passersby. Library staff must take appropriate actions to resolve problems which arise during use of the Library's Internet service and to enforce Library policies and rules.  To this end, Library staff members may need to observe Internet use, question Internet users, and restrict conduct by Internet users which violates this policy.

The wireless network is not encrypted. Other wireless users may intercept any information you send or receive using the wireless network, and web-based security controls may not be sufficient protection. Therefore, the Library recommends that you do not enter credit card numbers, passwords, or other personally identifiable information.

Other wireless users may also be able to view or change files on your computer. The Library recommends that you install and use anti-virus software, firewall software, and current security patches or upgrades on your computer.

The Library makes no representation or guarantee that any part of the Internet service, including the wireless service, will be uninterrupted, error-free, virus-free, timely, or secure, nor that any Internet content is accurate, reliable or safe in any manner for download or any other purpose.

You use the Library’s Internet service, wireless network, and electronic information resources entirely at your own risk. Monterey Public Library and the City of Monterey shall not be liable for any damage that may occur to any computer, peripheral equipment, or storage media, loss of data, loss of confidential information, unauthorized access to or alteration of data transmissions, and/or any other direct, indirect, special, incidental, consequential or exemplary damages resulting from or arising out of use of the Library’s Internet service, wireless network, and/or electronic information resources, or inability to use these services, or any other matter relating to these services.

You agree to indemnify and hold Monterey Public Library and the City of Monterey harmless for any claim or demand, that may be made by any third party due to or arising out of your conduct in connection with any use of the Library’s Internet service, wireless network, and electronic information resources, your provision of content, your violation of this Policy, or any other violation of rights of another person or party.

The Library's Internet workstations are primarily for research, educational and informational use. Time limits are in place to ensure that all customers have the opportunity to use the Internet. Specific ports and protocols such as FTP, file share, and insecure e-mail protocols (SMTP, POP, IMAP) may be disabled on the wireless network in order to limit bandwidth and prevent abuse.

Any use of the Internet which violates Federal, California, or local laws is prohibited on both Library and customer computers. Examples of illegal activities include but are not limited to fraud--which includes disguising or falsifying sources of electronic mail and other electronic communications with the intent of misleading, defrauding or harassing others--displaying or distributing child pornography or other obscene materials, libeling and slandering other persons, and sending “spam” e-mail including identical or nearly identical messages sent to a large number of recipients who have not granted deliberate and explicit permission for the message(s) to be sent.

You must follow Library rules while using the Internet (ask to see Policy No. 515, Disruptive Behavior in the Library). You must be quiet, courteous toward others and respectful of Library equipment.

You may not modify Library or other customers' hardware or software, change configurations, attempt to access non-public files or accounts, or attempt to intercept, monitor, disrupt, or impede other users' wireless communications. You may not use personal software, download software, or bookmark sites on Library workstations. Use the Suggestion Box if you wish to suggest sites for the Library's Web pages.

You may not violate software license agreements or infringe on copyrighted material. United States Copyright Law (Title 17, U.S. Code) prohibits the unauthorized reproduction or distribution of copyrighted materials, except as permitted by the principle of "fair use." You may not copy or distribute many electronic materials without the permission of the copyright holder. You are responsible for any consequences of copyright infringement.

The City of Monterey and the Monterey Public Library are committed to providing an environment free from sexual harassment. Please help by refraining from the display of material which may be interpreted as part of an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment. Do not attempt to show displayed material to passersby.