Consistent with its mission to serve the community through the provision of information and a wide array of informational and recreational resources, the Library welcomes its users to the Massachusetts Library Information Network and the Internet, often referred to as the information superhighway. The Internet is actually a network of distinct national, regional and local computer networks each with its own governance and operational priorities. The individual systems allow access to their resources as a courtesy to users and to facilitate the free flow of information. Consequently the Library makes access to the Internet available to its users but cannot control, verify or otherwise validate the information located by users.

The Internet provides access to tremendous resources but users are encouraged to exercise caution in the use of that information and to confirm its accuracy with other sources. By its very nature the Internet is a complex resource to use. Within our limits, staff members will be happy to introduce users to our new electronic resources. Staff are unlikely to be able to assist users with extensive research or provide detailed personal instruction on the use of the network. Anyone is eligible to use our electronic resources. As with any other library resources, parents are encouraged to explore the Internet with their children. The Library makes information available; it does not limit that information to any user. Parents or a child's legal guardians are expected to discuss access to the Internet or any limitations on that access with their children.

Computing resources may only be used for legal and ethical purposes by the public and staff. Unacceptable uses of these resources by borrowers or staff will result in the suspension of access privileges. Examples of unacceptable uses of electronic resources include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Destruction of or damage to equipment, software, or data belonging to the Library or other users;
• Disruption or unauthorized monitoring of electronic communications;
• Unauthorized copying of copyright-protected material;
• Violation of computer system security;
• Unauthorized use of computer accounts, access codes, or network identification numbers assigned to others;
• Violation of library usage policies and regulations;
• Harassment of other users;
• Libeling or slandering other users;
• Violation of another user's privacy.

The Library encourages staff and users to become more familiar with the Massachusetts Library Information Network and the Internet through practice, training and independent learning. Within resource limitations, the library will encourage this continuing education by providing materials about the use of electronic resources and by sending staff to further training whenever possible. The Library endorses Access to Electronic Information, Services, and Networks: An Interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights.