Computer Use & Wireless Internet Policy

The library provides computer workstations with software programs and Internet access for informational and leisure interests of the general public. Resources found on the Internet do not always provide accurate, complete, or valid information. Computer users must use the Internet at their own risk and take responsibility to question the validity of information found on the Internet.

  • Internet access is subject to federal and state laws: (1) Chapter 847 Florida Statute, which prohibits viewing obscenity, text or graphic, and (2) CIPA (Child Internet Protection Act) which requires filtering of obscene images.
  • The library utilizes Internet filters to block obscene images. Under CIPA law, customers 17 and older may request disabling of the filter; however, all users are still obligated to abide by the Patron Code of Conduct and Florida Statutes.
  • The City and the library are not responsible for the security of personal information that is transmitted via the public access computers.
  • Library staff cannot enter personal information into forms for Internet computer users. Staff can provide guidance and direction to appropriate websites as requested.
  • Staff can end computer sessions not in compliance with the Patron Code of Conduct.
  • Computer workstation behavior is subject to the Patron Code of Conduct. Failure to comply with computer conduct and operational rules may result in the loss of computer privileges. Inappropriate computer behavior includes the following:
  1. Displaying, printing, sending or storing obscene, threatening, or harassing material.
  2. Installing, downloading, or modifying computer software.
  3. Damaging, altering, or modifying computer equipment, or networks, or security environment.
  4. Violating copyright or trademark laws, software licensing agreements or intellectual property rights.

Privacy

Computer users and staff will respect the privacy of others.

Youth Computer Use

While in the library, children age ten (10) and under must be in the immediate vicinity of an adult caregiver. All ages must comply with the Patron Code of Conduct. For the safety of our underage patrons, youth in grades 5 and under must use the computers in the Children’s Wing. Youth in grades 6-12 may use any computer in the Teen Zone. Youth in grades 9-12 may also use the computers in the Adult computer area. Parents or designated guardians are responsible for overseeing their children’s Internet use.

Computer Reservations

If all computers are in use in the Adult area, reservations can be made at the Reservation/Print Release terminal. If all computers are in use in the Children’s Wing or the Teen area, contact the Youth Services Desk to make a reservation. Reservations must be made in person and cannot be made in advance.

Session Length

Computer sessions are one hour. If no reservations are pending, sessions can be extended for 30-minute intervals. Maximum computer use per day is three hours. Computer users taking online exams or completing forms requiring more than a one-hour session may request a longer session during non-peak times.

A valid Pinellas Public Library Cooperative card is required to use a library computer.

  • Visitors may obtain a Computer Use Only card with a valid ID at the Circulation desk or use the 15-minute express computer. Visitors must agree to and comply with the Computer Use and Internet Access Policy.
  • Pinellas County residents without a PPLC library card are required to fill out the application to obtain a library card.
  • Computer users must only use their own issued personal library card. Use of multiple library cards, other than their own, for the purpose of extending computer time is forbidden and will result in the loss of library privileges.

Wireless Internet Access

The library provides free Internet access for users with wireless enabled laptop computers and other wireless devices. Wireless service is available throughout the building, although the signal may be stronger in some areas. The wireless network name is Library.

  • The Library is not responsible for any loss of information or damage to a device that may result from using the wireless network or building power sources.
  • Wireless networks are subject to security risks. The Library recommends utilizing encryption, virus protection and personal firewalls to protect personal information. The Library is not responsible for compromised personal information, damaged or corrupted user equipment and configurations, Internet security, or personal data files.
  • Wireless devices should not be left unattended. The Library cannot assume responsibility for theft of equipment or damage to any hardware or software of personal computing devices.
  • Library staff cannot configure patron devices or enter personal information into your device for you.
  • By choosing to log on to the Library’s wireless network, users agree to abide by the Patron Code of Conduct and this policy.
  • The wireless network is filtered. Some websites may be blocked.

Printing

The library offers two methods of printing:

  • Public patron computers: Printing from the public computers is $0.15 per page for black and white and $0.50 per page for color, cash only, or $0.25 per page for black and white and $0.65 per page for color, payable by Visa, Mastercard, or PayPal.
  • Mobile/wireless printing: Wireless/mobile printing is available through Princh, a cloud-based printing service. You may print from your mobile device through the Princh app, available at the Apple App Store or Google Play, or from your laptop or computer by visiting Print.Princh.com and entering in the printer ID code 102986. Wireless printing is $0.25 per page for black and white and $0.65 per page for color, payable by Visa, Mastercard, or PayPal.

Staff cannot refund money for print jobs that are not properly formatted or not wanted. Print preview is recommended prior to printing. Do not make unauthorized copies of information protected by copyright. Unauthorized copying or distribution if copyrighted materials without the permission of the copyright holder is prohibited by 17 U.S. Code, Section 107. Legal Responsibility for unauthorized copying lies with the computer user.


Updated August 2020