Computer Usage Policy
We have more than 94 computers available for the public. All these computers provide access to the Internet. Other programs that are available on some of the computers include Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Adobe Reader, and a variety of children's educational games. Please note that library staff can introduce you to these programs but are not able to "train" you in their use. Manuals and help files are available for most of our computer programs to assist you with using these programs. A donation from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation brought eight computers to our Children's Department. These computers have a wide variety of games for children of all ages, and a number of tutorials for word processing, spreadsheets, and the Internet.
All our programs are set up to be easy to use for all patrons. Altering any of our programs, or attempting to subvert our security systems, may result in your computer access privileges being suspended. You may not install or download your own programs to our computers.
If you are going to use the Internet, you should be aware that no "business usage" is permitted. As well, the viewing, posting, or showing of other images or text that could be described as "pornographic" is not permitted. If you need to view something that others may find offensive, please ask the staff for assistance. Please be warned that we monitor all Internet usage to ensure that it complies with the law, with library rules. Misuse of the computers will result in your access privileges being suspended. Parents and guardians are reminded that they are responsible for the behavior and Internet usage of their children.
The use of the Internet and the CD-ROM programs on our computers requires you to have your own library card from the Speer Memorial Library. You may not use someone else's card or number. Staff members may ask to see your library card or other acceptable identification at any time. If you cannot show them your I.D., you will be asked to exit the programs and leave the computer. If you do not have a library card, please go to the Circulation desk for assistance. You do not need to have a card to use any of the other programs on our computers.
If you have forgotten your library card, you may go to the Circulation desk and ask for a One-Time Access Slip. This slip will give you access for one day only. If you have lost your card, you may ask at the Circulation desk to purchase a replacement card. The fee for this service is $2.00, plus any fines that are on the old card.
If you feel that the security of your patron number has been compromised, please ask at the Circulation desk for assistance.
Anti-virus software will scan the contents of any Disk or USB inserted into our computers. You should be aware that if an infected file cannot be cleaned, you will not be able to open that file. The Speer Memorial Library cannot be responsible for your disks/USB or their contents.
Please do not turn the computers off or reset them. If you are having difficulty with one of our computers, please ask a staff member for assistance. All computers turn off automatically at closing time. Library staff cannot stop this process.
The library's computers are set up to print out in black and white. If you print from these computers, the printouts are 10 cents per page. However, we can print out on our color; ask at the Circulation desk for this service. Every page that prints out in color costs $0.50 each - regardless of the amount of color on the page! Due to warranty restrictions, we cannot use the paper that you provide in our printers or copiers.
