Internet Access Policy

1. Purpose

To provide clear and consistent, and legally compliant guidelines for the provision and use of public Internet access at Fort Erie Public Library (FEPL). The policy supports the library’s mission of lifelong learning, intellectual freedom, and equitable access while safeguarding patrons, staff, and library resources.

2. Scope

Applies to any individual using library‑provided public Internet services. The policy governs all devices, networks, and software owned or managed by FEPL. This policy does not apply to supplemental internet provided through the Town of Fort Erie.

3. Definitions

• Filtering – Software that blocks or limits access to specific categories of web content (e.g., adult material, hate speech).
• Intellectual Freedom – The right of individuals to seek, receive, and impart information and ideas without restriction, as articulated by the Canadian Federation of Library Associations.
• Internet Access – The provision of web‑browsers, Wi‑Fi connectivity, and related services on library computers or patron devices.
• Patron – Any person who accesses FEPL services, including library members, visitors, and guests.
• Supplemental – something that works to fill a lack or deficiency. Supplemental internet is internet that supports the high-speed internet usually available in cases where the internet is down or not available in that location.

4. Policy Statement

FEPL is committed to providing open, safe, and equitable Internet access that aligns with the following principles:

1. Access & Inclusion - All patrons may use library Internet resources free of charge, subject to reasonable usage limits that preserve service quality for the community.
2. Intellectual Freedom & Responsibility - Patrons are encouraged to explore diverse viewpoints while exercising critical evaluation of online information.
3. Safety & Security - FEPL implements age‑appropriate filtering, network security measures, and user education to mitigate risks without unduly restricting lawful content.
4. Respectful Use - Users must conduct themselves in a manner that respects the rights, safety, and comfort of others sharing the public space.

4.1 Internet Access Provision

• Internet browsers are available on public computers at all three branches.
• Wi‑Fi is offered throughout the facilities for personal devices, protected by WPA2‑Enterprise authentication.
• Age‑appropriate filtering is applied to computers designated for children. Adult stations remain unfiltered, with a disclaimer regarding potential exposure to offensive material.

4.2 Acceptable Use Conditions

5. Responsibilities

• Board of Directors – Reviews policy annually, ensures alignment with provincial legislation and CRA standards, and approves major revisions.
• Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Oversees implementation, allocates resources for hardware, software, and staff training, and ensures compliance monitoring.
• Systems Administrator - Communicate expectations to staff, maintains systems, including making security recommendations to the CEO, and addresses incidents promptly.
• Staff - Enforce the policy at point‑of‑service, provide patron guidance on digital literacy, and document any violations. Staff may refuse to assist a patron if there is reasonable suspicion that the requested service is part of a scam, phishing attempt, or other illicit activity.
• Patrons / Volunteers - Follow the policy, report inappropriate content or behavior, and cooperate with staff requests to modify or end a session.

6. Compliance & Consequences

Non‑compliance may result in graduated actions:

1. Verbal Warning - First minor infraction (e.g., brief display of prohibited content).
2. Temporary Suspension - Repeated or moderate violations (e.g., persistent use of stations for illicit content).
3. Permanent Revocation - Serious breaches (e.g., illegal activity, harassment, repeated policy disregard).

All actions are documented in the patron’s record and may be escalated per FEPL’s disciplinary procedures.

7. Communication

Internal

• This policy will be distributed to all applicable parties via Rise. An updated copy of the Policy Manual will be located in Sharepoint and at the circulation desk. Updates will be communicated in a timely manner.

External

• This policy will be posted on the website, displayed at each branch, and a plain text version available upon request. Updates will be communicated in a timely manner.

8. Related Documents

• Ontario Library Association – Statement on Intellectual Freedom
• Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA)

9. Anticipated Review Date

This policy will be reviewed every three years. The next scheduled review is November 2028, or sooner if legislative or technological changes warrant an earlier update.