Internet Use Disclaimer

In order to fulfill our mission to provide resources and services to the public, the Central Arkansas Library System (CALS) provides access to the Internet. The Internet is a global, digital network with no centralized control over its users or content. Because of the unique nature of this information resource, users should be aware of the following:

  • Not all information on the Internet is accurate, complete, or current. Users are expected to use their judgment to evaluate the validity of any information retrieved.
  • Users should be warned that some material available on the Internet might contain items that are illegal, inaccurate, defamatory, or potentially offensive and/or disturbing to some people.
  • Restriction of a child’s access to the Internet is the responsibility of the parent, guardian, or caregiver.
  • CALS assumes no responsibility for any costs, liability, or damages, direct or indirect, arising from the use of its computing resources or from use of the Internet.
  • Although the Library uses anti-virus software on its computers, this will not completely protect a user from computer viruses. Members of the public who wish to download files or save information from databases available at CALS onto a portable storage device should be aware of the dangers associated with viruses. CALS assumes no responsibility for loss or damage to the user’s data or hardware caused by computer viruses.
  • The Library cannot guarantee the security of data transmitted over the Internet and does not guarantee that any username, password, email, credit card number, financial, or any other information entered is private or secure. We recommend you do NOT use public computers for any financial, confidential, or private transaction. CALS assumes no responsibility for loss or damages arising from such activities.
  • Library staff can assist with basic computer use and will assist individuals in the use of the Library’s homepage and offer basic instruction in the use of sites directly linked to the Library’s Homepage. Staff can provide limited assistance in using other websites and with using software. CALS provides technology classes for those who need assistance in basic computer and software skills.
  • The library does not guarantee that any particular website or electronic transaction will work, or be compatible with, library equipment.

CALS complies with the Children’s Internet Protection Act, which requires that schools and libraries which receive discounted internet access through the E-Rate program must filter obscene and harmful content. For more information visit https://www.fcc.gov/consumers/guides/childrens-internet-protection-act.

Public Computer Use

The Central Arkansas Library System (CALS) makes computers available for public access to CALS’ digital resources and services. Along with the use of these computers come certain responsibilities and restrictions. The Library may institute reasonable procedures protecting the integrity and security of Library computing resources and regulating access to computers or the Internet for the benefit of our patrons. Anyone using Library computer systems expressly consents to this policy and to all CALS policies and rules. The Library may deny or withhold computer, Internet, or even library access privileges for infractions of these policies. Illegal acts involving Library computing resources may also be subject to prosecution by local, state, or federal authorities.

The following actions are prohibited on Library computing resources. Users may not:

  • Engage in any activity which is obscene, harassing, or deliberately and maliciously offensive, libelous, slanderous, or defined as harmful to minors in Arkansas Code 5-68-501.
  • Violate copyright laws or software licensing agreements.
  • Install or use any software not currently installed and available for use on the computer.
  • Deliberately attempt to alter software configurations.
  • Deliberately attempt to damage computer equipment or software.
  • Deliberately attempt to cause degradation of system performance or unnecessarily impede the computing activities of others.
  • Intentionally use techniques or software which harass other users or infiltrate a computer or computing system and/or damage or alter the software components of a computer or computing system.
  • Use Library computers to gain access to computers or computer systems for which they are not authorized.
  • Use any Library computer for illegal or criminal purposes.
  • Use Central Arkansas Library System computer accounts or personal codes, such as passwords.
  • Use another person’s library card to gain access to library computers. Patrons using someone else’s library card number may be asked to discontinue their computer session and may be suspended from using the Library’s computer resources.
  • Have more than one active computer reservation at a time.

Policy Information

Board Policy #700
Board Approval: 02/27/97
Revision: 02/21/02, 01/22/09, 10/24/19
Director’s Recommendation: 02/14/02