1. The Library’s Internet Acceptable Use Policy What it is for Why it is important What you need to know How you can help users understand it

2. What is the purpose of the AUP? The AUP sets out the parameters of acceptable use of the service The user agrees to the content of the policy before being allowed access to Internet services In doing so they accept responsibility for their own use of the service This protects the library service against legal liability This is very important However we should try to help the user understand the AUP

3. Format of the AUP The AUP follows a recommended best practice in terms of design formulated by Professor Paul Sturges of Loughborough University: Aims – What is the purpose of the service? Is it purely educational, or is recreational use allowed? Eligibility – Who the service is provided for? Scope – The limits of the service. Illegal use – An understanding of the types of use that are against the law. Unacceptable use – A description of what is deemed unacceptable. Service commitments – The services that will be provided. User commitments - Any agreements that must be adhered to by the user.

4. Aims and eligibility We provide access to computer and internet facilities for the educational, cultural and leisure needs of our users We need to ensure any children and young people meet our eligibility requirements for using the service If a user has any queries regarding the policy before they sign it, they should be instructed to contact

5. Scope of service Users might not be fully aware of the nature of the Internet, therefore we should try to help them understand The library service cannot be held responsible for accuracy, validity or usefulness of information a user may access Try to ensure users know that they should take care in passing on personal details to websites unless they know the sites are trustworthy Also try to ensure they know the risks of online financial transactions such as shopping or banking, and to look for the secure anchor icon when passing on such information

6. Filtering Users need to be made aware that the Internet is filtered and what types of material are deemed to be inappropriate The procedure for unblocking material incorrectly filtered should be communicated to them when requested The service records all data from the use of the Internet and users browsing will be recorded This data can be used by the service for disciplinary action if the AUP is breached and can also be passed on to law enforcement agencies if a crime is committed

7. Illegal use We define illegal use as including: Downloading of software or the copying of others’ intellectual property without permission Infringement of the privacy of others or breaches of their rights related to data protection law Defamation or harassment of others Hacking of computer systems Spreading of viruses and Trojans, or email phishing scams

8. Unacceptable use This includes use that may not be illegal, but may be inappropriate or bothersome to others This includes use that is indecent, threatening, or offensive The library serves the entire community and a mixture of viewpoints exist, however we should expect users to consider their behaviour in the context of the wider community

9. Service commitments Problems users may have with the facilities should be dealt with as quickly and as efficiently as possible We try to ensure all software is kept up to date, but problems should be reported to Costs for additional services like printing should be clearly communicated to users

10. User commitments It is vital users understand that signing the document constitutes a contract between them and the service and that they are liable for their own use If they have any queries or are unsure about any aspect of the agreement, they should seek assistance from library staff in the first instance, or for more detailed information

11. General points Internet access is an important aspect of the services the library provides, we should make the user experience as straightforward as possible Outwith the parameters of the AUP we should not seek to interfere in the public’s use of the service. Any instances of inappropriate use should be communicated to the appropriate member of staff on duty

12. Further information Leaflets are available for adults and for parents or guardians signing on behalf of children in their care Contact with any queries regarding Internet access in the service, or this policy