Acceptable Use Policy

Policy Regulations

The Chester County Library System (CCLS) provides public access to the Internet and other electronic resources through CCLS provided computers and wireless connections. It offers this in fulfillment of its mission to ensure that every resident has access to exceptional opportunities to read, learn, create, connect and contribute to a better quality of life. CCLS recognizes that the Internet is a rich but unregulated resource and that not all sources on the Internet provide information that is accurate, complete, current, legal, or philosophically acceptable to all citizens. CCLS, and its members, select links for their web sites to guide users to sites that have been reviewed according to the same selection criteria used for other library resources.

Assuming Responsibility

Individual users assume the responsibility for determining the suitability of Internet content for themselves. CCLS affirms the right and responsibility of parents and legal guardians for deciding what library resources, including those found on the Internet, are appropriate for their own minor children. CCLS and its member library staffs do not act in loco parentis to restrict what a child may access. CCLS discourages all customers (especially minors) from disclosure, use, or dissemination of personal information while interacting with others through direct electronic communications, such as social networking web sites, chat rooms and email. Unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal information regarding minors is strictly prohibited.

Technology Protection Measures

CCLS uses technology protection measures to filter content in accordance and compliance with the federal Children’s Internet Protection Act, (CIPA), Pub. L. No. 106-554, Div. B., Title XVII, 114 Stat. 2763A-335 (2000).

User Regulations

Users of CCLS provided computers or wireless connections may not use them for any purpose that violates federal, state or local laws. Users must respect all copyright laws and licensing agreements pertaining to electronic files and other resources obtained via the Internet. The viewing of pages that contain or display sexually explicit images or materials or obscenity as defined in 18PaCS 5903 is prohibited in Pennsylvania in a public library environment. The viewing of child pornography is a criminal act and may be prosecutable as a felony. CCLS will assist in the prosecution of criminal activity. The CCLS Executive Director is the custodian of CCLS owned/leased computer hardware. Any request by law enforcement officials or others for access to such hardware must be referred to the CCLS Executive Director.

Right to Terminate

CCLS reserves the right to terminate an individual’s use of an electronic resource, library computer or wireless connection at any time for failure to comply with CCLS Policies or Guidelines.

Revised & Approved Dates

• Revised and approved March 19, 2002
• Revised and approved July 20, 2004
• Revised and approved June 21, 2005, edited July 21, 2005
• Revised and approved July 15, 2008
• Revised and approved March 20, 2012
• Revised and approved June 19, 2012
• Revised and approved October 22, 2019