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Computer Use and Internet Safety Policy

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Policy Statement

The Boulder Public Library District (BPLD) provides internet access as a service to the community. The internet contains a wide variety of material and opinions from various points of view. Not all sources provide information that is accurate, complete or current and some information may be considered offensive or inappropriate to users. While BPLD is sensitive to the concerns of users about internet content, no one, including the library, can control the information available on the internet. Everyone is responsible for their own use of the internet in the library. BPLD assumes no responsibility for the safety of equipment or for laptop configurations, security, or data files resulting from connection to the wireless network.

Internet Filters

The Boulder Public Library District complies with state [PDF]  and federal law mandating the use of filtering software in public libraries. Both internet computers and wireless access are filtered for obscene or harmful websites in accordance with the Federal Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) and Colorado Library Law, C.R.S. 24-90-601, part 6. Users should be aware that filtering software is inherently imprecise and flawed and may not block information that some individuals may consider offensive, inaccurate, or inappropriate. Additionally, the filter may limit access to sites which have legitimate research value. Due to technological limitations, the library cannot guarantee that the filter will protect against access to internet material that is illegal, obscene, child pornography, or harmful to minors. BPLD may not infringe on users’ First Amendment rights other than as provided by law. Any user in a library facility who is 18 years of age or older may request an authorized library employee to disable the filter on public computers in the adult services area. Use of the internet and sites chosen for the library’s website uphold the American Library Association (ALA) guidelines*. For an up-to-date list of filtered categories contact the library via Ask A Librarian.

*Guidelines from The Library Bill of Rights, the Freedom to View and Freedom to Read statements are part of the ALA Access to Electronic Information, Services and Networks: An Interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights.

Use of the Internet by Children and Teens

Parents and designated caregivers are responsible for their minor children’s use of computers, the internet and the wireless network while in the library. The Boulder Public Library District does not act in loco parentis (i.e. in the place or role of parent or caregiver). Parents are expected to accompany children in need of supervision on library visits to ensure the safety and well-being of children. As mentioned above, all computers and wireless network are filtered. Filtering software is not perfect and may not block everything that might be considered objectionable. Parents and designated caregivers have the right to request reconsideration of access to a specific website(s) by submitting a Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials Form [PDF] associated with the library’s Collection Development Policy.  All requests are carefully considered.

Boulder Public Library District’s Role

  • Provide access to the internet and its resources to all users.
  • Assist users with navigating the internet and identifying reliable sources of information.
  • The library cannot guarantee a wireless connection or access to all online resources will always be available or that will be available via wireless connection.
  • Abide by the Colorado Consumer Data Protection Laws. FAQ with more information about these laws.
  • Staff may not be able to provide technical assistance.

Internet and Computer Terms of Use

  • Users must abide by the BPLD Wi-Fi Internet Access Policy when using library computers or the wireless network.
  • Users are responsible for complying with state and federal laws.
  • Users are responsible for complying with copyright laws.
  • Users must respect the rights and privacy of others.
  • Users may not attempt unauthorized access (including disabling filters or so-called hacking) to any computer system.
  • Users may not damage equipment, software or data.

Restriction or Suspension of User Access

Failure to comply with Boulder Public Library District Rules of Conduct or the Internet and Computer Terms of Use contained in this Policy may result in restricted access or suspension from library facilities.

Adopted by the Boulder Public Library District Board of Trustees, December 12, 2023.