Computer and Internet Policy

Computer and Internet Policy
All approvals by WFBPL Board of Trustees
Current Version Approved: June 24, 2025
Revision Approved: August 18, 2011
Original Approved: October 10, 2006

Whitefish Bay Public Library Mission
The Whitefish Bay Public Library, as a cornerstone of the community, is dedicated to connecting all people, inspiring a love of learning, and providing access to ideas, information, and resources.

Summary
The Whitefish Bay Public Library (WFBPL) provides free and equitable access to computers and Internet services as a core part of its mission to connect the community with ideas, information, and resources. Patrons of all ages may use Library technology to access, create, and share information.

Key Guidelines
Agreement: Use of Library devices and/or Internet constitutes agreement with this policy.

Access: All patrons may log into library computers with a library card or guest pass. Minor-age patrons are allowed to use the library computers on their own, without a parent or guardian present. Public library staff do not act in loco parentis.

Staff Monitoring: Library staff do not actively supervise computer use but may respond to policy violations that are observed directly, heard from service areas, noticed during routine walkthroughs, or brought to their attention through patron feedback. Staff will apply this policy consistently in both youth and adult areas.

Patron Responsibility: Patrons use Library devices and Internet at their own risk and are responsible for evaluating online content and safeguarding personal data. The Library does not filter Internet content.

Confidentiality: Internet use is confidential and only disclosed if required by law or due to a policy violation.

Assistance: Library staff may provide basic assistance with computer and Internet use, such as logging in, printing, or navigating common tasks. Staff do not provide in-depth technical support or complete tasks for patrons.

Applicability: This policy applies to both Library-owned and personal devices used within the Library, whether connected to the Library’s Internet or a personally owned cell phone or mobile hotspot.

Available Devices

• Desktop Computers
  • Youth (13 and under): Youth Services computer
  • Teens (14–17): Youth and Adult Services computers
  • Adults (18+): Adult Services computers
• Laptops for in-library use (18+)
• Laptops and hotspots for checkout (18+)

Time Limits and Usage

• Desktop Computers: 3 hours/day; auto shutdown 10 minutes before closing.
• In-library laptops: All day; return by closing time.
• Loan periods and fines: Refer to current Library Loan Periods and Fines policy
• Saving Files: Personal information and files are automatically erased when patrons log out of public computers and In-Library Use laptops. Patrons are encouraged to save their work to a USB drive or email a copy to themselves before logging out. The Library is not responsible for any loss of data or file recovery.
• Printing: Available for a fee, including mobile printing from onsite and offsite.
• Sound: Headphones must be used; sound must not be audible from 5 feet away.

Prohibited Activities
Patrons may not:

• Display pornography or sexually explicit material in the Library.
• Damage or tamper with Library devices.
• Install software on Library devices.
• Violate copyright or licensing laws; WFBPL disclaims all liability related to such activities.
• Harass, defame, or bully others online.
• Attempt unauthorized access to Library or other networks.
• Return laptops or hotspots in the book drop.

Policy Violations
May result in restriction or suspension of Library privileges per the Code of Conduct Policy.