Internet Access

All Library Branches have terminals available for Internet Access.
A library card in good standing is required to use the Internet at our libraries.
All Internet users must comply with our Internet Access Policy.
Patrons can also use their own laptops and cables to access the internet or use wireless internet access.

Internet Access Instructions when in a library building
(Instructions in PDF)

Internet Access Policy

In accordance with the library's stated mission to provide access to the facilities, resources and services necessary to meet the informational, educational and leisure requirements of all people in the community, the library will provide public access to the Internet to the extent that space and budgetary limitations allow.

The library is not responsible for the content of any resources available over the Internet and will not monitor any patrons' use of the Internet except in case of disturbance to other patrons or staff in the library. Due to public concern about Internet content, the library offers both filtered and unfiltered access to the Internet. Patrons and parents must be aware that no filtering software is infallible and that the user may still gain access to unsuitable materials while filters are in effect.

Patrons' use of the Internet, as with use of any library materials, must conform to normal standards of behavior in a public place using facilities that are shared with the general population. Patrons who conduct illegal activities, who attempt to damage or alter physical or virtual library property, who attempt to circumvent library policies and procedures, or who create distractions with inappropriate noise or actions may be restricted from use of the library and its resources. The supervisory and administrative staff on duty shall bear responsibility for evaluating and responding to any incidents that may arise.

As with all other library materials, parents, not library staff, are responsible for monitoring their children's access to the Internet. Because the Internet is a medium that provides access to a variety of elements that are potentially hazardous or unsuitable for children, the library will make a special effort to inform parents about the Internet in support of their parental responsibility for protecting their children.

Children under age 18 who wish to use an Internet terminal must be accompanied and supervised by a parent or guardian or have a signed statement of permission from a parent on file. Prior to signing, parents are provided the informational publication "Child Safety on the Information Highway." Users who appear to be younger than 18 years of age and who cannot present proof of sufficient age or a library card with a parental permission sticker will not be allowed to use the internet terminals unless a parent is present.

The library can furnish many informative books and periodical articles on Internet use and resources, as well as information about classes offered by local organizations. Library patrons are encouraged to avail themselves of these learning opportunities.

Approved by HDPL Board of Trustees Dec. 19, 2002.