Internet and Library Computer Usage Policy

The Schertz Public Library provides public access to computers, laptops, and Wi-Fi to support informational, educational, cultural, recreational, and technological needs. By using library computer resources, patrons agree to comply with this policy, all library rules, and applicable federal, state, and local laws. Violations may result in suspension of computer or library privileges and, when applicable, legal action.

Access and Appropriate Use

The Library supports access to constitutionally protected information consistent with the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights. However, library technology resources may not be used for unlawful activities, to access or distribute illegal materials, or in ways that disrupt library operations or create a hostile, unsafe, or intimidating environment.

Prohibited activities include, but are not limited to:

• Accessing, displaying, printing, or distributing material prohibited by law.
• Hacking, introducing malware, or attempting to compromise system security.
• Damaging, altering, disconnecting, or misusing library equipment or software.
• Accessing another person’s files, accounts, or passwords without authorization.
• Violating copyright laws, software licenses, or website terms of use.
• Using library resources for commercial monetary gain.
• Interfering with others’ use of library resources or failing to follow staff instructions.

Internet Filtering

The Library does not monitor or control Internet content and is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, or appropriateness of information accessed online.

In compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA), Internet access on all library computers, devices, and Wi-Fi networks is filtered. Filtering is intended to block access to obscene content, child pornography, material harmful to minors, and threats to network security. No filtering system is completely effective, and the Library cannot guarantee that all inappropriate content will be blocked or that all appropriate content will remain accessible. Users may request review of a blocked website, and such requests will be evaluated by Library staff in accordance with applicable law and this policy. Reviews are conducted on a case-by-case basis and may require consultation with Library Administration or Information Technology (IT); therefore, requests may not be reviewed or resolved on the same day they are submitted.

The Library recognizes that individuals may differ in their views regarding what content is offensive, objectionable, or appropriate. The Library does not filter content based solely on personal beliefs, viewpoints, or individual preferences; however, use of Library computers and Internet resources must not create a disruptive, hostile, or unsafe environment for other users or staff, and must comply with this policy and all applicable laws.

Privacy

The Library respects user privacy; however, computers and devices are used in public areas where screens and activities may be visible to others. Users are responsible for protecting their personal information. Library staff may review usage patterns when necessary to ensure compliance with library policies and maintain system security.

For more information on Library Privacy and Confidentiality, refer to our policy.

Children and Teen Access

Parents and guardians are responsible for supervising their children's Internet use and determining what content and online activities are appropriate for their children. The Library does not act in place of a parent or guardian.

To support the safe and responsible use of online resources, and in accordance with applicable federal requirements, the Library encourages parents and guardians to discuss Internet safety with minors and to discourage participation in potentially harmful online activities, including but not limited to the unauthorized disclosure, use or distribution of personal information through email, social media, chat rooms, online gaming platforms, and other forms of electronic communication.

The Library recognizes the role of parents and guardians in determining appropriate computer access for their children. Accordingly, computer access settings for minors are established during the library card registration process. Parents or guardians select one of the following computer access levels during library card registration:

• Restricted Access: Children’s Room computers only.
• Unrestricted Access: Any public computer.
• No Access: No computer privileges.

Computer supervision requirements follow the Library’s Unattended Child Policy:

• Ages 7 and under: Parent or guardian must remain with the child at the computer.
• Ages 8–12: Child may use a computer independently if a parent or guardian remains in the building.
• Ages 13–17: May use computers without parental supervision.

Designated Computer Areas

Library staff may manage access to public computers as necessary to ensure equitable use, accessibility, and compliance with this policy. This includes maintaining access to special-purpose workstations, such as those designated for children and wheelchair-accessible computer workstations. Staff may reserve, assign, or otherwise manage access to these stations and take other reasonable measures to support their intended use and accommodate patron needs.

Public computers are designed for use by a single individual. No more than two people may use a workstation at the same time, except in special circumstances, such as library-sponsored classes, instructional assistance, or when a parent or guardian is accompanying a child.

The Library provides public computer workstations in designated areas throughout the building to serve the needs of different age groups. Computers located in the Children’s Library are reserved for children ages 12 and under and their accompanying caregivers. Computers in the Teen Area are reserved for individuals ages 13–19. Patrons are expected to use the computer area designated for their age group whenever possible and to respect the purpose of these spaces. Adherence to these guidelines helps maintain a safe, welcoming, and age-appropriate environment for all library users.

Wireless Internet Access

The Library provides free Wi-Fi during normal operating hours. All rules governing computer use also apply to wireless access.

The Library cannot guarantee compatibility with personal devices, provide technical support beyond basic assistance, or ensure the security of wireless connections. Users assume all risks associated with using public wireless networks, including potential exposure of personal information, viruses, or other security threats.

Computer Sessions

Public computers are available on a first-come, first-served basis and require login with a valid library card or guest pass. Guest passes may be requested at any service desk and require presentation of a valid photo ID. Guest passes are limited to one per person per day and are not available to individuals who have a library account. Patrons with blocked accounts, outstanding fees, or overdue materials are ineligible to use public computers.

Computer sessions are limited to two hours and may be extended for up to one additional hour if no other patrons are waiting. Patrons may use a maximum of three sessions per day. It is the patron's responsibility to monitor their remaining session time and request an extension from library staff before their session expires. Session extensions are not guaranteed. All computer sessions will automatically end five minutes before the library closes to allow for an orderly shutdown of library equipment and facilities.

Patrons are responsible for saving their work frequently and ensuring that important files are stored on a personal device, cloud storage service, or other external storage medium. Public computers automatically remove all user data when a session ends, whether due to logout, timeout, or system restart. Library staff cannot recover files, documents, or other work that is lost or not properly saved on a personal device, cloud storage service, or other external storage medium.

Library Laptops

In order to provide our community with more varied computer access options within the Library, including the convenience of using computers and the internet in all areas of the main library building, Schertz Public Library provides in-house laptops to eligible patrons for personal use. Laptop borrowers must agree to the terms of the Laptop Borrowing Policy.

Eligibility requirements and usage restrictions for library laptops differ from those for desktop computers. Complete details regarding laptop eligibility, borrowing requirements, and usage limitations are outlined in the Laptop Borrowing Policy.

User Responsibilities

By logging into a library computer or laptop, users agree to:

• Use only their own library card or guest pass barcode when applicable.
• End their session when requested by staff or when their time expires.
• Use personal storage devices at their own risk.
• Refrain from installing, downloading, or running unauthorized executable programs.
• Pay all applicable printing charges before printing.
• Respect the privacy and comfort of others.
• Use headphones for audio and maintain a low volume.
• Log out completely when session is complete.
• Avoid behavior that obstructs, distracts, or disturbs others.

Patrons who observe activity that may violate this policy are encouraged to report concerns to library staff. Staff will address violations in accordance with library policies and applicable law.

Policy created June 2026
Endorsed by the Library Advisory Board August 3, 2026