Internet and Public Computer Access/Cyber Security Policy

Last Reviewed and Approved: February 26, 2025

The Valley Park Community Library provides access to internet-enabled computers and devices as well as wireless internet as part of its commitment to meeting the informational needs of the community.  Use of the Internet and public computer(s) is granted to all patrons.  For minors, this permission is granted when a parent signs the Informed Consent Form that is required for a juvenile to receive a library card. 

The Valley Park Community Library does not monitor computer usage and has no control over the information accessed through the internet.  The library expressly disclaims any liability or responsibility arising from access to use of information obtained through the electronic information system.  It is the responsibility of the library computer user to respect the rights of others and take care with use of the library’s equipment. Computer and internet settings may not be changed.  Computers and wireless internet may not be used for any fraudulent or unlawful purpose, including any activities prohibited under any applicable federal, Missouri or local laws.  Violation of current Missouri Law (Missouri Revised Statues 573.010 and 573.060) in regards to accessing and displaying pornography and/or obscene materials will result in suspension of computer and library privileges.  Children 17 years of age and under must have an Informed Consent form on file at the library to access the internet.  All computer and wireless users must abide by the library’s internet service providers’ use agreements.  Library computer users must not attempt to gain unauthorized access to restricted files or networks, to damage or modify library owned devices or software or to intentionally download or save items to library owned devices. 

The Valley Park Community Library has established Computer Use  Guidelines that govern the amount of time an individual may use the computer, printing procedures, technology support available form library staff, as well as other technology related rules.  Users agree to and must abide by these guidelines.  Access to public computers may be revoked for failure to abide by the rules listed in the policy.  The library filters access to pornographic and sexually explicit websites from all computers as required by Missouri Revised Statue 182.827.  The library fully complies with the Child Internet Protection Act Pub. L. No. 106-554.  Filtering software is not guaranteed to protect a child from access to information that a parent/guardian finds inappropriate.  

The library protects patron privacy in every way possible, but cannot guarantee confidentiality on the internet.  Users should use best practices and caution regarding their private information as public computers are accessed by multiple patrons every day.  Patrons handling financial transactions or other confidential tasks do so at their own risk. The Valley Community Library is not responsible for the privacy practices or security of any websites accessed by users.  Library computer users are responsible for complying with copyright law and adhering to software licensing agreements, as well as all local, state and federal laws.  Use of the Library’s internet connection in an illegal, disruptive or destructive manner is not allowed and may result in suspension of internet and/or library privileges.