About the Library
Sacramento Public Library Internet Use & Access Policy:
Internet Use & Access Policy Parents Guide Safety for Kids
(New Policy as of March 2007)
Internet Use & Access Policy
The Sacramento Public Library Authority Board has approved the following Sacramento Public Library Internet Use Policy:
- The Sacramento Public Library provides public access to the Internet as part of its mission to deliver services and materials to meet the information needs of its customers.
- The Sacramento Public Library upholds and affirms the right of each individual to have access to constitutionally protected materials. The Library also affirms the right and responsibility of parents and legal guardians to determine and to monitor their children’s use of Library materials and resources.
- The Library's workstations are in public areas. Since others may be involuntarily exposed to what is viewed, the Library asks that each user exercise good judgment and consideration of others. Please bear in mind that some materials, such as sexually graphic materials, may well be more appropriate for viewing in the privacy of your home, rather than in a Public Library setting. If Library staff become aware of subject matter that would interfere with the maintenance of a safe, welcoming and comfortable environment for the public, the Internet user will be asked to end a search or change a screen.
- The Library wishes to make the Internet and all computer resources available to anyone who respects the rights and property of others, and who abides by the Library's rules and procedures. Failure to appropriately consider the rights of others may lead to the loss of computer privileges for a finite period.
- The Sacramento Public Library offers filtered access to the Internet by default. Unfiltered access is available on a per session basis. Juvenile customers under 17 years of age are required to obtain parental consent for unfiltered access on a per session.
- The Library staff is available to facilitate use of the Internet and to answer questions or concerns.
- The Library has created home pages for children and teens that provide content and links to other Web sites that contain age-appropriate information.
- The Library provides access to the Internet for the purpose of researching electronic information resources. Users may browse, print, or transfer files to diskettes.
- The Library does not provide e-mail accounts. However, patrons may access free, Web-based e-mail accounts through library Internet stations.
- Sacramento Public Library disclaims any warranty as to the quality or accuracy of electronic information via the Internet. The Sacramento Public Library shall have no liability for any direct, indirect or consequential damages related to the information contained therein. The library does not guarantee privacy or confidentiality for the use of library Internet stations.
- The Library's Internet stations may not be used for any purpose that violates U.S., state or local laws. Users must respect all copyright laws and licensing agreements pertaining to software files and other resources obtained via the Internet.
- Library Internet users may not attempt to alter or damage computer hardware or software. Software must not be installed or run from any diskette drive. The Library does not allow the use of personal software.
- Library equipment may not be unplugged, moved, removed, or otherwise modified. Users may not attempt to reconfigure systems or software or in any way interfere with the system set-up.
- Users may not use the network to make unauthorized entry or hack into other computational, informational, or communication services or resources. Users may not invade the privacy of others or engage in any activity that is harassing, defamatory or threatening; or receive or display text or graphics which may reasonably be construed as obscene as defined by law.
- All Library users are expected to use library resources, including the Internet, in a responsible and courteous manner, consistent with the educational and informational purposes for which the resources are provided. All Library users must abide by the Library's Rules of Conduct and Internet rules and procedures. Please read those rules and familiarize yourself with their requirements. Violations may result in the loss of Internet use and/or library privileges.
- Illegal activities will be subject to prosecution by the appropriate law enforcement authorities.
The
Sacramento Public Library presents
A Guide
to the Internet for Parents
What is the Internet?
The Internet is a giant network of computers that connects people and information all over the world. It is one of the newest and most exciting learning tools. This huge collection of information also is referred to as the "information superhighway" or "cyberspace."
The part of the Internet that houses sites with text, graphics, video, and audio information is called the "World Wide Web." A characteristic of the Web is that every screen of information (also called a "page") has a number of pointers to other pages of information. These pointers, or "links," are what give the Web its name. All of the links together form a Web of information that is truly international in scope. "Surfing the Web" is exploring the different sites found within this web of links.
Become Web Wise
By touching a few keys, you can read a newspaper, view photographs, and with the right technology, even hear speeches. There are millions of Web sites on the Internet with many more added daily. The Internet can be overwhelming; and sometimes, it's difficult to find the exact information you want. Take some time to learn more about the Web and how to navigate it well.
As is the case with other electronic media, there is concern about children's use of this new technology. It's important that parents teach children to make wise choices. It is not the technology itself, but how it's used that makes the difference.
Surfing Safely
Here are some suggestions on how you can make surfing the Web a fun and safe experience for your children:
- Take time to learn about the Internet.
- Explore cyberspace with your children.
- Provide clear guidelines. Let your children know if there are subjects that are off-limits.
- Learn how to evaluate the Web. Read books and magazines about Internet safety.
- Teach your children safety rules for dealing with strangers online.
- Ask a librarian for assistance.
Help for Parents
The following are recommended books and videos to guide you through the Web:
The Internet Kids & Family Yellow Pages (2001), by Jean Armour Polly. More than 3,500 specially selected family-oriented Web site descriptions are listed. The directory also includes editorial elements designed to encourage exploration of other family-appropriate sites. 025.04 I61zp 2000a
The Parent's Guide to Protecting Your Children in Cyberspace, by Parry Aftab. A no-nonsense guide for keeping kids protected and informed on the Internet, this is an essential book for any family with a home computer. 004.678 A258 2000
The World Wide Web for Kids & Parents, by Viraf D. Mohta. Profiles family-appropriate resources on the Internet that address a wide range of interests and needs. This book helps build Internet skills, offers entertaining activities, and includes helpful advice on online do's and don'ts. 004.678 M699 1996
Kids Online: Protecting Your Children in Cyberspace, by Donna Rice Hughes with Pamela T. Campbell. This book helps parents explore the wonders of the Web and offers practical, step-by-step guidance for learning about the Internet. 649.1 H893 1998
Internet Searching Skills [video]. A comprehensive video guide to searching the World Wide Web. In logical, step-by-step strategies, Eleanor and her virtual friend Jane explain how to access, research, evaluate, and communicate vast Internet resources into results anyone can use in school, daily life, or in the working world. VIDEO 004.67 I61zi2 1998
Internet for Kids!: A Beginner's Guide to Surfing the Net, by Ted Pedersen and Francis Moss. This beginner's guide to the Net includes a parent's and teacher's guide, along with instructions on getting started and managing to understand the Internet. J004.67 I61zp 1997
Cyberspeak
The following are some definitions you should know when using the Internet:
- Internet (or "Net" for short): A worldwide network of computer networks.
- World Wide Web (www): A part of the Web where you may point and click on graphics and hypertext to go to different sites.
- Home Page: The first screen or "welcome center" of a Web site.
- Hypertext: Words at a Web site that appear underlined, bold, or in color. By clicking on these words, you will go to another page or Web site where related information is found.
- Netiquette: Correct manners and behavior for the Net.
- Newsgroups: Places on the Net where users "chat" or exchange information about many different things.
- E-mail: Mail sent and received electronically by computers.
- Search Engine: A computer program that finds something on the Net for you.
Selecting a Good Web Site
The best sites have the following characteristics:
- Accuracy: The page lists the author and institution that published the page and provides a way of contacting them.
- Authority: The page lists the author's credentials and his/her domain. For example: "edu" for education, "gov" for government, and "org" for organization.
- Objectivity: The page provides accurate information objectively and with limited advertising.
- Currency: The page and its links, if any, are current and updated regularly, as stated on the page.
- Coverage: The information can be viewed without paying fees or using a special browser technology or software.
For more help on selecting a good Web site, try: www.internet101.org
The Sacramento Public Library's home page www.saclibrary.org has numerous Web links for pre-schoolers, school-age kids, teens, parents, and teachers.
Click the "Kids & Teens" block on the library's home page, and you will find links for:
- Pre-schoolers - Games, stories, craft-making ideas, and more.
- School-age kids - Movies, games, jokes, magic tricks, award-winning authors and children's books, and sites to assist children in researching their homework assignment.
- Teens - Homework research sites, sports, how to save money for the future, movies, music and television shows; and more.
- Parenting -- Child development; parenting tips; support links for moms, dads, and care givers; and reviews of products for children.
- Educators -- Lesson plans, reading lists, home schooling, and PTA activities.
- Family Activities -- Family games, crafts, puzzles, and more. This is fun for the whole family!
Online Safety Advice for Kids and Youth
Before you go online, here are some things you should think about for your safety and the safety of your family and friends.
Only with your parents' permission should you give out personal information such as:
- your address
- your telephone number
- your parents' names, work addresses or phone numbers
- the name and location of your school
- your picture
Talk with your parents and decide together the time of day you can be online, the length of time you can be online, and appropriate areas for you to visit. If you want to go into areas other than those agreed upon, talk to with your parents first
If you come across any information that makes you feel uncomfortable, tell your parents right away. Do not respond to any messages that are suggestive or mean or that in any way make you feel uncomfortable. It is not your fault if you get a message like that. If you do, tell your parents right away so they can contact the online service.
Remember that not all information on the Internet is accurate and that people online may not be who they say they are.Never agree to get together with someone you "meet" online without first checking with your parents. If your parents agree to the meeting, be sure that it is in a public place and bring your mother or father along.
The Internet is a great information resource if you use it wisely.
Ask your librarian if you need help.