Internet access is available on selected public computers for all users of the Halton Hills Public Library. The Library also provides free wireless Internet service, both in and around the branches and through Wi-Fi enabled devices such as hotspots. Access to the Internet is compatible with the Halton Hills Public Library Board’s endorsement of the Canadian Library Association’s Statement of Intellectual Freedom (Appendix 4). 

The Internet allows users to connect to a vast array of resources. Halton Hills Public Library has no control over these resources and does not have complete knowledge of all Internet content. Information on the Internet may be comprehensive, reliable, and current, or it may be inaccurate, incomplete, out-of-date, or inappropriate. Since the Internet is an unregulated medium, users access the Internet at their discretion. Knowledgeable staff will assist patrons with Internet use as time permits. Personal instruction is available through programs and services.

Content filters can be activated on in-branch computer stations. However, such filters are not fool-proof and do not guarantee that offensive material will be blocked. Conversely and more importantly, filters may also prevent access to useful material. Content filters are activated on all stations located within the Children’s Department. 

Illegal Use
Patrons are subject to federal, provincial, and municipal legislation regulating Internet use, including the Criminal Code provisions relating to obscenity, child pornography, sedition, and the incitement of hate.  Users must also refrain from any actions, which might cause them to be civilly liable, such as using e-mail to defraud, harass or defame others. 
Canadian Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL)

Any person who uses: 

  1. A computer system owned, operated and/or controlled by the library; and/or 
  2. An Internet connection owned, controlled and/or provided by the library (including any wireless connection), must carry out his or her activities in a manner that is compliant with CASL. 

Any person who contravenes this part shall defend, indemnify and hold harmless the Library and its directors, officers, employees, agents and trustees, from and against any and all complaints, claims, actions or demands, disclosure requests, compliance notices, administrative monetary penalties, fines, damages, injunctive relief, class actions, legal fees, expert fees and disbursements. 
Inappropriate Use

Patrons remember that they are accessing the Internet in a public area shared by people of all ages. As such, the Library reserves the right to ask individuals to refrain from displaying disturbing or offensive imagery. 

Parents or guardians of minor children must assume responsibility for their children’s use of the Internet. 
Unauthorized Use
Patrons must not attempt to gain unauthorized access to the computer system or Wi-Fi network or try to change or damage the hardware, software or system infrastructure. 
Violation of the Policy
Patrons not adhering to the Library’s Internet Use Policy will have their Internet privileges revoked. Those who use the Library’s Internet for illegal purposes will be subject to prosecution. 
Library Responsibilities

The Library staff will: 

  • Allow all workstations to be available to any person, regardless of age; 
  • Assist users whenever time and knowledge permits; 
  • Recommend links to reputable Internet resources; 
  • Make patrons aware of the Internet Use Policy through signage and other publicity; 
  • Make every effort to ensure compliance with the Internet Use Policy; 
  • Take reasonable measures to protect the privacy and confidentiality of Internet users. 

Given the nature of the Internet: 

  • The Library assumes responsibility only for the information provided on its web pages (www.hhpl.on.ca); 
  • The Library  cannot guarantee stable website links as they change rapidly; 
  • The Library assumes no responsibility for any direct or indirect damages arising from the use of its connection to the Internet. 
Patron Responsibilities

All library patrons are expected to use the Internet in a responsible manner and to comply with the following: 

  • Patrons are not to engage in any illegal activity; 
  • Parents or guardians are responsible for monitoring their children’s Internet use; 
  • Patrons are responsible for questioning the validity and appropriateness of any information found on the Internet; 
  • Patrons need to be sensitive to the fact that stations are in public areas, shared by people of all ages; 
  • Patrons are to avoid displaying images, which may be deemed disturbing or offensive; 
  • Patrons must not willfully abuse or damage the computer software, hardware or equipment in any way. 

Revised/Approved: January 14, 2015

Reviewed/Approved: October 4, 2017 

Revised/Approved: November 10, 2021

Next Scheduled Review: 2024