All branches of the Yonkers Public Library offer Internet access as part of our mission to provide educational, cultural and recreational resources to our community. Internet terminals are located in many convenient locations, and there is a wireless network available for patrons using their own equipment. This service is provided at no charge, but is subject to the following guidelines and restrictions:
- The Internet draws upon a vast and unmoderated network of information and opinion, and patrons should employ caution and common sense in evaluating its content. Providing access does not imply that the Yonkers Public Library endorses or guarantees the accuracy of Internet resources.
- Internet terminals have been configured with specific hardware and software to provide reliable and consistent service. Some terminals may be designated for instruction, catalog searches, or other special purposes. Please do not make any changes to the terminals that will affect their function or performance.
- The Library employs filters to prevent access to specific sites that contain inappropriate images or promote illegal activities. Do not attempt to bypass these safeguards. If you believe a site has been blocked by mistake, you can request that we review and unblock it. Please do not display images, sounds or messages that will negatively affect those who find them objectionable or offensive. Patrons who use the Internet for illegal purposes will be banned from the Library and law enforcement authorities will be contacted when appropriate. In addition, please refrain from using these resources to conduct a business or commercial enterprise, or to engage in commercial activity such as the distribution of advertising.
- It is the policy of YPL to comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act [Pub. L. No. 106-554 and 47 USC 254(h)]. To the extent practical, technology protection measures (or “Internet filters”) shall be used to block or filter Internet, or other forms of electronic communications, access to inappropriate information. Specifically, as required by the Children ‘s Internet Protection Act, blocking shall be applied to visual depictions of material deemed obscene or child pornography, or to any material deemed harmful to minors. Subject to staff supervision, technology protection measures may be disabled for adults or, in the case of minors, minimized only for bona fide research or other lawful purposes.
- To the extent practical, library staff will monitor and provide guidance to minors for appropriate, lawful, and safe usage of the Library’s internet access in accordance with CIPA. The responsibility for oversight of minors using Library internet access, however, ultimately belongs to the parent/legal guardian.
- The Library uses a self-service reservation system for Internet terminals, and it requires that users have a library card from any Westchester County library. Non-county residents may request Guest passes. The Library may limit session time and sessions per day to ensure fair use of terminals – ask a librarian for more information. To ensure privacy, computer logs are deleted each day.
- Wireless Internet access is provided by a separate network that limits the number of simultaneous users. During periods of high use, patrons may experience slow speeds or may not be able to log on. If patrons have trouble in logging onto the Library’s network, staff will offer general guidance but patrons are responsible for making any necessary changes to their own equipment.
- The Library’s general policies on appropriate behavior also apply to areas where Internet service is provided. Loud or offensive language, horseplay, and other activities that interfere with a patron’s right to the quiet enjoyment of library programs and services are prohibited, and appropriate action will be taken.
Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees
January 26, 2010
Revised May 19, 2022
Policy Type