Freeport Community Library Internet Usage Policy

The Freeport Community Library's connection to the Internet, a worldwide computer based resource, enables the Library to provide access to information beyond the confines of its own collections and thus enhances the breadth and depth of information resources available to library users.

The Library's new access to the Internet offers the opportunity to integrate access to information that is on the Internet with the books, periodicals, audio and video tapes and other materials that are part of the library's collection.

Currently, the Internet is an unregulated medium. Unlike other library resources, it is not organized, catalogued or indexed. The information available on the Internet includes much that is personally, professionally and culturally enriching. It also provides access to material that may be offensive or disturbing to some individuals, as well as access to information that may be factually incorrect and/or illegal. The Internet is a powerful tool for finding information, but it is not necessarily a substitute for other library resources. Library users are encouraged to ask a Librarian for assistance in finding the best resource source.

The Freeport Community Library seeks to provide free and open access to ideas and information for all library users.

Parents concerned about their children's use of electronic resources are ultimately responsible for setting standards and establishing guidelines for their children. Parents may find the pamphlet Child Safety on the Information Highway, published by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and available in the library, useful in considering some of these issues.