There are fourteen public computers in the Geary-Heyduck Technology Center. Sessions are available from opening until 30 minutes before the library closes. Reservations are not required. Computers are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Users may use flash drives to download files. Laptops are available for in-library use.
Qualifications: In district, residents must have a library card in good standing to use library equipment. A visitors pass with photo ID is required for out of district patrons. Computers are wheelchair accessible.
Programs/Databases Available: Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Publisher).
- The library reserves the right to limit, refuse and/or ban any user from using the library equipment and computers.
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Use of the computers throughout the library shall be governed according to the laws and regulations of the State of Illinois and the City of Centralia.
Computer users must register at pre-designated locations (usually the Circulation desks) prior to using a computer at all branches.
Use of the computers is on a first come, first serve basis. Scheduling will be in one-hour increments. If no one else is waiting to use the computer, a user may request to continue beyond the time just completed. A user must relinquish the equipment to another eligible user when asked to do so by library staff. The librarian may establish the number of sessions available per day, per user. Staff members have the right to interrupt or cancel the use of the computer. All computers will be shut down 30 minutes before closing time. Abuse of the rules and/or equipment may result in the loss of computer and/or library privileges.
The user who signs in at the information desk is the only person allowed to operate the computer.
Users will abide by the library’s cell phone policy while using computers.
COMPUTER USE
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Computer Users will not display or download any profane, obscene, vulgar or otherwise offensive material.
In addition, Computer users will not:
- Make any attempt to alter computer configurations.
- Make any attempt to cause degradation of system performance.
- Use any library workstation for any illegal or criminal purpose.
- Engage in any activity that is deliberately and maliciously offensive, libelous or slanderous.
- Install or download any software/ programs to the hard drive.
Library Patrons may:
- Users may access instant messaging, chat rooms, games, e-mail, etc. It is at the library staff’s discretion to disallow any site, instant messaging, chat-room, game, e-mail, etc., that may lock-up the computer or add to the degradation of the system.
- Users may use their own flash drive.
- The library does not provide personal electronic mail accounts.
- If user behavior becomes inappropriate while using the computers, the library staff reserves the right to end the session.
- Users agree that the library will not be responsible for any indirect, consequential, special, or punitive damages or losses that may arise in connection with their use of the computers.
Accuracy/Authenticity Disclaimer
The Library recognizes the right of individuals to determine what is most appropriate for their needs. Users should be aware that information accessed via the Internet may be controversial, inaccurate, or dated.
Computer Use by Minors
It is the responsibility of parents or guardians to restrict their children’s computer use, releasing the Centralia Public Library from any liability.
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Parents or guardians must sign a waiver for children under the age of 18 to use library computers.
Staff Assistance
Staff may provide limited assistance but can not provide computer training. It is the responsibility of the user to understand basic personal computer usage.
Vandalism
Vandalism or any other misuse of the computers will result in the loss of privileges. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm equipment and/or software. This includes, but is not limited to the uploading or creation of computer viruses. Violations and unlawful activities will be dealt with appropriately.
Enforcement
Users who violate these Computer Use guides are abusing computer services and are subject to losing library privileges. Library staff will address violations by issuing a “cease and desist” warning, termination of a library card and/or use of the building.
