South Central Library System - Acceptable Use Policy for Library Staff

This document is http://www.scls.lib.wi.us/staff/policy/staffaup.html, last updated June 10, 1996.

The South Central Library System (SCLS), provides internetworked computing services to libraries in south central Wisconsin. The South Central Automation division manages the networks through which these services are provided. Individual Libraries within SCLS may define "conditions of use" for facilities under their control. These local policies must be consistent with this overall policy but may provide additional detail, guidelines and/or restrictions. Management personnel at individual Libraries assume responsibility for informing their staff of this Acceptable Use Policy and their own local policy.


Privacy

Users shall not seek information on, obtain copies of, or modify files, other data or passwords belonging to other users, or misrepresent other users on the network.


Copyright & Plagiarism

Users shall not copy, transmit, or disclose protected data, software, or documentation without proper authorization.

Users should assume that any software they did not create is copyrighted. They shall not distribute copyrighted or proprietary material without the written consent of the copyright holder.


Freedom of Expression

No user shall be restricted or denied access for expressing or receiving constitutionally protected speech.


Security

Users who are allotted individual accounts under their local policies shall abide by the security policies and procedures administered by the SCLS Automation division.

Users shall not seek to gain unauthorized access to information resources.

Users shall be responsible for properly safeguarding any administrative data and shall be responsible for any activity that occurs under their administrative ID and password.


Indemnification

SCLS shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental or consequential damages (including lost data, information or profits) sustained or incurred in connection with the use, operation or inability to use the system.

SCLS shall not be liable for damages resulting from anonymous users' activity on the network.

The addition of unauthorized peripheral equipment to the network is strictly prohibited. SCLS shall not be liable for damage resulting from the attachment of foreign components to the network.


Expected Behaviors

All users shall be aware of and use proper Netiquette.


Legal Constraints

Users are not to use the network or its resources for any purpose that violates any U. S. or Wisconsin state laws.

Ultimate responsibility for traffic that does or does not conform to this policy shall be with the individual end-user who originates that traffic.

Federal and state laws ultimately determine whether or not there is a legal right to privacy of electronic mail, conferences, and computer files and the context of any such privacy rights.


Resource Utilization

Any use of the network for private commercial endeavors shall be prohibited.


Remedies and Recourse

In the event that prohibited activity is detected or suspected, SCLS shall initiate an investigation that may result in suspension of authorization of computing services to the individual or account who violates this policy. Prohibited activity may lead to prosecution.