Computer Use Policy
The Internet
The Abbeville County Library System provides a wide variety of resources to meet the needs of the community it serves. Internet access is an integral part of those resources and is available at each location. Wireless access is available at all locations.
The Internet is a constantly evolving resource and the information and links change quickly and unpredictably. Some material may be controversial or incorrect, so we ask that you carefully evaluate the information found when using this resource.
Guidelines for Use
Access to our computers is open to all library cardholders in good standing. To use a computer, you should first sign a computer use agreement at any branch of the library system. This agreement verifies that you will follow all library guidelines and policies as regards computer use.
Once we have your computer use agreement on file, you can use the computer for up to two (2) hours each day. Simply have a library assistant scan your library card and sign you up for a computer every time you come in to use this resource.
Young adults ages 13-17 can use the computer by themselves as long as a parent or legal caregiver has previously signed a Computer Use Agreement for them.
Children under the age of 12 can use the computer when a parent or legal caregiver is present and has previously signed a Computer Use Agreement for them.
Out-of-county visitors are welcome to use the computers upon presentation of a picture I.D and with the understanding that they must follow the same policies regarding computer use as in-county cardholders.
To facilitate closing procedures, we will begin shutting down computers ten (10) minutes before closing.
Saving Files
You can save files to your personal USB or to a formatted floppy disc.
Filtering
The Abbeville County Library System complies with the Federal Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA), which requires the use of filtering software for adults, teens and children. Filtering software may not block all material that patrons find offensive. Parents are expected to supervise their children's Internet sessions.
It is your responsibility to respect copyright laws and licensing agreements and to assume responsibility for payment of fees for any fee-based service.
It's the Law
Pursuant to South Carolina Code Title 16 Chapter 15 Article 3 Section 16-15-305, it is unlawful to use computers to send, receive or display inappropriate materials, defined as text or graphics, which may be construed as obscene. Invasion of the privacy of others or partaking in any activity that is harassing, defamatory or threatening, or receiving or displaying graphics which may reasonably be construed as obscene as defined by law is also prohibited.
The Abbeville County Library System reserves the right to terminate an Internet session at any time.
Computer Assistance
Though we cannot offer complete tutorials in specific software applications, we are happy to offer assistance in using the computer as staffing allows.
Public User’s Security
Users should be aware that the Internet is not a secure medium and that third parties may be able to obtain information regarding users’ activities. However, the Abbeville County Library System will not release information on the use of specific internet resources by members of the public except as required by law or necessary for the proper operation of the library.
Please observe these procedures when using the Internet:
1. Users must be logged-on with a valid Abbeville County Library System card. Users must have a computer use agreement on file with the library system. Users will be denied access if their library card has fines in excess of $5.00.
2. The person logged on is the only one authorized to use the internet during that time period.
3. Only one person at a time may use the internet computer.
4. Each registered time slot is up to 120 minutes and slots are on a first-come, first served basis. If patrons do not use their maximum time, they are welcome to return later in the day to complete their allotted time.
Approved by the Abbeville County Library Board
July 2009
The Abbeville County Library System complies with CIPA's guidelines for internet use as approved by the Abbeville County Library Board on October 5, 2019.
