Library Policies
Internet Policy
The Chicopee Public Library provides public Internet access to all patrons as part of its mission to provide the community with equal opportunity to access information resources that will satisfy their personal, educational and professional needs. The information that is retrieved from the Internet, cannot be verified or authenticated by the Chicopee Public Library and is to be evaluated by the user as to its currency, validity or appropriateness.
The Chicopee Public Library uses filtering software on its Internet computers. The filtering software being used is not a replacement for parental guidance. The Chicopee Public Library cannot insure the appropriateness of websites being accessed. It is a parent's responsibility to be aware of safety guidelines and to instruct their children accordingly.
Visit out Internet Safety Website for Parents and Children.
Guidelines for Usage
Patrons may reserve time on the Internet by signing in at an available computer with their own library card. Library cards are not transferable. The time allotment is restricted to one session per day. At the Central Branch Library and the Chicopee Falls Branch Library, reservations (when all computers are occupied), may be made through the library's PC reservation software. The procedure for reserving a computer, varies, at each branch location. Please see a staff member for assistance.
Computer usage is limited to one individual to each computer workstation.
E-mail is allowed via free, web-based e-mail services. The library does not offer e-mail accounts to patrons. Sending e-mail from computer to computer within the building, is not acceptable use, and will result in termination of the session.
Files may be saved through e-mail accounts, disks, cds or USB drives. Disks and CD-Rs are available at the circulation and reference desks for a charge of $1.00 each. Please be aware that downloaded files may contain viruses. The Chicopee Public Library is not responsible for any damage incurred to a patron's disk, home computer, or for any loss of data, and advises patrons to have virus-checking software on their home computers.
Printing is available at a cost of 10 cents per page for black & white and 50 cents per page for color.
Failure to follow these guidelines, and to comply with the rules of conduct, may result in termination of the session, or loss of computer privileges, depending on the nature and the repetitiveness of the offense.
Rules of Conduct
- Access to the computer's hard drive or the Library's network is strictly prohibited.
- Do not attempt to circumvent the Library's reservation or security software.
- Do not vandalize computing equipment.
- Do not eat or drink at computer workstations.
- Do not use computer resources to harass other individuals.
- Please refrain from disruptive behavior. The Library reserves the right to maintain an atmosphere, conducive to all patrons.
- Comply with Copyright Laws and licensing restrictions. For further information, please refer to a librarian or the U.S. Copyright Office at: http://lcweb.loc.gov/copyright/.
- Abide by all applicable federal and state laws.
Approved by the Board of Library Trustees, October 16, 2006
Wireless Internet Policy
Wireless Limitations and Disclaimers:
The Main branch of the Chicopee Public Library provides it's users with free Internet access points or "hot spots" for use with portable computers or devices that are capable of receiving wireless signals. Wireless users agree to abide by the Library's Internet Policy while using the Library's wireless network.
Users are responsible for making sure their computer has the correct settings and necessary hardware to access this service. Library staff cannot assist users in configuring their equipment or troubleshooting problems. Most WiFiŽ equipment will be compatible, however the Library cannot guarantee that your hardware will work with their wireless connection.
Use of this wireless connection is entirely at the risk of the user. The Chicopee Public Library will not be held responsible for any damages, direct or indirect, occurring as a result of this service. Users should be forewarned that any information transmitted or received through this network is unsecured. Cautious wireless users should not transmit their credit card information, passwords or any other sensitive information while using the wireless connection. The Library is not liable for any loss of privacy or data resulting from the use of their wireless network and/or hardware or software issues that might result from electrical surges.
Printers are not available via the wireless connection. If users need to print, they can either email files to themselves or save their work to a portable format (floppy disk or usb drive) and sign up for a session at one of the Library's public computers.
Patrons should refer to the following list before accessing the Library's wireless connection:
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Users will need a wireless network interface card, 802.11b or later to access this service.
- Library patrons must use their own notebooks, laptops, or other wireless devices.
- All Library policies apply to wireless access users.
- Laptop users may use electrical outlets for power; however, electrical cords cannot obstruct aisles or walkways.
- Virus and security protection is the responsibility of the individual patron.
- The wireless signal is accessible in all public areas of the building, although signal strength may vary.
- The Library provides filtered Internet access.
- The Library reserves the right to limit bandwidth on a per connection basis. Downloading large files could compromise the ability of other users to access the network.
Approved by the Board of Library Trustees, June 9, 2008
Patron Behavior Policy
To better serve all library patrons, the Library Board of Trustees has established certain standards of acceptable behavior to maintain an atmosphere which promotes the use and enjoyment of the resources and services of the library and which protects the safety of the general public, the library staff and the equipment and materials of the library.
Any activity which interferes with the rights of other patrons to use the library, which could result in physical, emotional, or mental injury to oneself or others, or could result in damage to the facilities, equipment or materials is considered disruptive and unacceptable. The library reserves the right to require anyone who violates these rules of conduct to leave the premises and to restrict library privileges for a specified period of time. Unlawful activities will be reported to the police and when appropriate, violators will be subject to arrest.
1.The following activities are not allowed in the library:
- Alcohol, tobacco and illegal drugs
- Creating a disturbance by making noise, the use of profanity, talking loudly, or engaging in other disruptive conduct
- Interfering with another person's right to use the library or with the library Staff's performance of their duties
- Threatening behavior, including but not limited to, violence, threats of violence, and possession of weapons
- Bringing animals into the library except those needed to assist a disabled person
- Eating, and, or, drinking except at designated times or in designated areas
- Use of cell phones and audio equipment
- Misusing the restrooms (i.e.) using them as a laundry or washing facility)
- Soliciting or canvassing of any kind
- Entering areas posted "Staff Only" without permission
- Running
- Sleeping
2. Those who damage or deface library materials or property will be prosecuted. Parents can be liable for damage done by a child under 18.
3. Theft of library materials, use of false identification to obtain a library card, or use of another person's library card without his/her permission are against state law and will be prosecuted.
4. Parents are responsible for the behavior and supervision of their young children age 7 and under.
5. Bicycles, roller blades, scooters and skateboards are not allowed in the library.
6. Persons without shoes will not be allowed in the library.
7. Patrons may be required to leave athletic equipment, large parcels or other belongings deemed appropriate with library staff until ready to leave the building.
Disruptive behavior is not necessarily limited to the above
Approved and reinforced with shorter version handout at the March 3, 2003 Board of Library Trustees Meeting
Unattended Children Policy
Parents/guardians may not leave children age 7 and under unattended in the library. Children 7 and under must be attended by a person 14 years of age or older. Parents/guardians are responsible for their children's behavior in the library. Parents/guardians will be notified if their children are left in a vulnerable situation or require supervision due to disruptive behavior. All incidents of a child being left alone will be recorded by a staff member.
The staff of the Chicopee Public Library strives to create a warm, inviting, fun environment for children. We offer many programs and services that encourage children to develop a love of books, reading, and learning, however, the safety and well-being of children at the library is of serious concern. It is the intention of this policy to enlist the cooperation of parents and other adults responsible for children to ensure that the library provides a safe and pleasant experience for all who use it.
Approved by the Board of Library Trustees, April 3, 1998
Internet Safety Policy
It is the intention of the Chicopee Public Library to restrict access by minors to material that may be harmful to minors and to material that is inappropriate for minors by providing filtered Internet access on all public Internet access computer terminals.
While it is impossible to guarantee the safety and security of minors using electronic mail, chat rooms and other forms of direct electronic communications, the Chicopee Public Library does post warnings to all customers that for their safety they should not release their name, address or telephone number while using electronic mail, chat rooms and other Internet services.
Unauthorized access including "hacking" and other unlawful activities are prohibited to all library customers and violators of this policy will be turned over to the Legal Authorities for prosecution.
The Chicopee Public Library takes a proactive role in the protection of minors on the Internet by providing materials such as "The Parents Guide to Protecting Your Children in Cyberspace" by Parry Aftab, McGraw-Hill, 2000, and posting the addresses or World Wide Web sites that provide accurate information about Internet Safety, such as: http://www.safekids.com.
Approved by the Board of Library Trustees, June 3, 2002
Book Borrowing/Fine Policy
Once an item is overdue, fines are charged for each day that the library is open. Print and audio materials will accrue a 10 cents per day fine with no grace period with a maximum fine of $3.00 per item. DVD and video fines will accrue at $1.00 a day with a maximum fine of $5.00 per item. Museum passes will also accrue fines at a rate of $1.00 per day with a maximum fine of $5.00 per pass.
After an item is 2 weeks overdue a reminder is sent to the borrower. A bill for replacement cost is sent when an item is 4 weeks overdue. For a lost or damaged item, the charge is the actual cost of the item. Payment can be made by cash or check and is non-refundable. Checks should be made out to the Chicopee Public Library. Exact new copies will be accepted in place of lost or damaged items.
The following fees are charged for replacement of lost articles:
- $2.00- Lost or damaged AV (Video/DVD/CD/Playaway) case
- $3.00- Lost or damaged AV (Video/DVD/CD/Playaway) insert
- $5.00- Lost or damaged AV case & insert (Video/DVD/CD/Playaway)
- $6.00- Lost or damaged audiotape (per tape)
- $8.00- Lost or damaged disc fromo book on CD (per disc)
Borrowing and privileges will be suspended at all C/W MARS libraries if a patron's fines reach $10 or any item is four weeks overdue (billed).
Cell Phone Policy
Cells phones are not allowed in the library. Please silence or put your cell phone on vibrate when in the building. If you have to make a call, please step out the library doors.