Internet and Computer Usage
The mission of the Cedar Rapids Public Library is to connect people to information, experiences, and services that enhance their quality of life so our community can learn, enjoy, and thrive. We do that by providing the public with timely access to information through a wide variety of materials, appropriate technology, and a well-trained staff. A goal of the CRPL is to enhance its existing collection in size and depth and provide opportunities for any citizen who wishes to explore the Internet at the library.
The Internet is an unregulated medium. It offers access to a wealth of material that is personally, professionally, and culturally enriching to individuals of all ages, but it also allows access to some material that may be offensive, disturbing and/or illegal.
The library cannot control or monitor the vast amount of material accessible from computers and the Internet. As with printed material, not all sources provide accurate, complete or current information. It is the responsibility of individual users to evaluate the validity of all information found.
The Cedar Rapids Public Library assumes no responsibility for information accessed while using the public computers. Library staff will not control or endorse specific information found on the public computers. Staff cannot control the availability, accuracy, or currency of information links that may change rapidly and unpredictably. Library users accept the risk that websites may include explicit or otherwise offensive material. It is the user's responsibility (or that of the parent or guardian) to determine what is appropriate. Library staff respect the privacy and intellectual freedom of all patrons in accordance with our guiding principles, and will only intervene if content is believed to be illegal or violate Library or City policy.
The library affirms the right and responsibility of parents or guardians to guide, determine, and monitor their children’s use of library materials and resources. Parents or guardians, not the library or its staff, are responsible for the information selected and/or accessed by their children.
The library will manage the use of the Internet in a manner consistent with all the library’s policies, including Behavior and Unattended Children, which are available to view at any time through the library’s website. Failure to use the Internet appropriately and responsibly, as defined in the Computer Usage Rules and Regulations agreed to at sign-on will result in suspension of computer use privileges and possibly library privileges.
Adopted: 11/07/96
Revised: 06/06/03, 07/05/07, 11/2015, 10/03/2019
Reviewed: 2013, 11/2022