Nashville Public Library makes the Internet accessible in accordance with our mission to provide information resources and services to ensure that all residents have free and open access to ideas and information. In this role, the Library provides access to information resources available on the Internet. The Library has no control over the information obtained through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its content or accuracy. It may contain materials which some find offensive or inappropriate. Library users access the Internet at their own discretion.

In accordance with the federal Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) (Pub. L. 106-554), all library computers are equipped with filtering software. The software is set to screen out sites which may reasonably be construed as obscene, as that term is defined in section 1460 of title 18, United States Code; or child pornography, as that term is defined in section 2256 of title 18, United States Code; or harmful to minors as defined in section 1703, Pub. L. 106-544. Users 18 years of age and older may request that a staff member disable the filtering software for research purposes. The software will not be disabled for users 17 and under for any reason.

As with other library resources, restriction of a child's use of the Internet is ultimately the responsibility of the parent/legal guardian, within the confines of the law.

The Library assumes no responsibility for damages, direct, or indirect, for the use of the Internet. This includes, but is not limited to, damage to personal or office computer equipment caused by virus-laden material downloaded from any Internet site. Users are encouraged to purchase and use a virus detection program on their home and office computers.

Internet users should be aware that it is not a secure medium. It is possible for third parties to obtain information regarding an individual user's search activities. Users should be very cautious about providing personal information over the Internet.

Ethical Use

All users of electronic information resources such as the Internet are expected to use these resources in a responsible manner, consistent with the educational and informational purposes for which they are provided. It is unacceptable to use the Library's computer system and Internet resources for any of the following:

• For any purposes which violate applicable U.S. or state laws. Users must respect all copyright laws and licensing agreements pertaining to software, files and other resources obtained via the Internet.
• Destruction of or damage to equipment, software, or data belonging to the Library.
• Disruption or interference of network users or services. Such interference or disruption includes, but is not limited to: distribution of unsolicited advertising, harassment, libeling, or slandering of others; propagation of computer worms or viruses.
• Sending, receiving, or displaying text or graphics which may reasonably be construed as either obscene or child pornography by community standards.

Violations of the Internet Safety and Ethical Use Policies

Users violating these guidelines will be advised of the Library's policy for ethical use and asked to comply. Users who repeatedly violate these guidelines after previous warnings will be restricted from using the Library's online services on that occasion. The Library reserves the right to prohibit violators from future access or use of the online services. Illegal acts may subject violators to prosecution by local, state, or federal authorities.