Computer Usage Guideline

General Internet Usage Statement
The Dedham Public Library provides free access to the Internet from its public computers and on its wireless network. Online resources are available on the Library’s website, the Minuteman Library Network site, and by searching the web.  
In providing public access to the Internet, the Dedham Public Library subscribes to the principles of intellectual freedom expressed in the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights and Freedom to Read statements and its interpretations of these documents. 

While much of the information on the Internet is valuable and enriching, there may be material that is offensive, inaccurate, incomplete, or illegal.  The Dedham Public Library does not monitor, and has no control over information accessed through our Internet, and is not liable for its content, presentation, or use. The Library does not filter Internet access, but requests all users be respectful of other patrons around them and act as responsible information users and consumers.

Suggested Guidance for Parents and Guardians of Minors
Parents and Guardians of minor children should be aware that the Library is a public building and, in accordance with Minuteman Library Network’s Internet policy, Library staff do not monitor individual Internet use. Supervision of a child’s use of the Library and its resources is the responsibility of the parent, guardian, or caregiver. 

In addition to this, the library does not monitor any direct electronic communication (email, chat rooms). We recommend parents teach their children to never give out personal information (name, address, password, telephone number, credit card number, etc.) online.

We encourage you to work with your family to develop rules for the use of the Library and the Internet, and to learn about online safety. One useful source we recommend is Connect Safely.

Information our Wireless Connection
The Dedham Public Library provides a wireless signal (Wi-Fi) that may be accessed, without a password, throughout the Library.  To connect to the Wi-FI users will need either a laptop equipped with a wireless network interface card or a mobile device that is Wi-Fi compatible.

How safe is the Library’s Wi-Fi connection?
Using Wi-Fi poses the same risks to personal information that a wired network poses, but with the added vulnerability of having the network more open and less secure. This is the nature of Wi-Fi – the network is easily accessible to many people. Cautious Wi-Fi users may choose not to transmit their credit card information and passwords while using any Wi-Fi “hotspot”, including the Library’s. The Library cannot ensure the safety of the user’s data when the library’s wired or wireless Internet is being accessed.