Wireless Access & Internet Use
Public Wireless Access at the Goshen Public Library
Any use of the library’s network (wired or wireless) must be in accordance with the library’s Internet Use Policy (see below).
Library staff are not able to provide technical assistance beyond that presented here.
Wireless Connection Information:
- Wireless access will only be available during library hours
- The wireless access point is centrally located on the main floor; consequently, signal strength will weaken as you move away from this area (including moving to the lower level)
- Most 802.11 b/g wireless network adapters should work with the wireless access point
- If you need to manually set the SSID (service set identifier) on your adapter/software, it is goshenpl
- Depending on your wireless adapter, it may not be necessary to change any TCP/IP settings; if you need to set these manually, set them to obtain both the IP and DNS server addresses automatically.
Please note
The library’s wireless network is not secure (i.e., it is not encrypted using WEP, WPA, etc.). Unless you take additional precautions, information sent to or from your laptop/pda/etc. can be intercepted by a third party that has the appropriate hardware/software and is within range of the network. (For more information about this issue, please see Tips for Using Public Wi-Fi Networks.)
Goshen Public Library Internet Use Policy
The mission of the Goshen Public Library is to acquire, maintain, and make available materials that encourage the independent learning of residents in the city of Goshen and Elkhart Township. A concentrated emphasis is placed on stimulating children’s interests and appreciation for reading and learning. The acquisition of materials, in a variety of formats, will be based on the interests, information and enlightenment of all people in the Goshen Community which it serves.
The Goshen Public Library provides Internet access in order to help fulfill this mission by making available a wealth of information resources found on the Internet. The following policy must be adhered to by any individual using the library’s Internet access.
- Acceptable Use
Internet use in the facilities owned by the Goshen Public Library must be in support of education, communication and research and be consistent with the mission of the Goshen Public Library. Use of another organization’s network or computing resources must comply with the rules appropriate to that organization. Transmission of any material or use of the Internet in violation of any U.S., state, or local regulation is prohibited. Examples of unacceptable use include, but are not limited to:- Violation of computer security
- Vandalism of computer data, software, or hardware
- Violation of copyright laws
- Harassing or disrupting other users or patrons
- Display and/or distribution of obscenity, child pornography, or, to minors, materials harmful to minors
- Transmission of libelous, slanderous, or misrepresentative material
- Privileges
Internet access is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use may result in cancellation of those privileges. The library’s supervisory staff will deem what is inappropriate use based on item 1 above and may temporarily suspend a user’s Internet privileges. The Executive Director of the Goshen Public Library may take further action to deny, revoke, or suspend a user’s Internet privileges as warranted. - Access
The demand for use of the library’s Internet access may exceed the available supply. Therefore, it is necessary to manage Internet access fairly and equitably so that all users will have an opportunity to use the resource. The library may employ whatever reasonable methods it deems appropriate, including, but not necessarily limited to:- Requiring identification
- Use of sign-up or reservation procedures
- Establishing time limits
- Parental permission and/or accompaniment for children under the age of 17
- Internet Resources
The Goshen Public Library provides access to the Internet / World Wide Web (WWW). However, the library reserves the right to filter or limit access to and/or availability of Internet / WWW resources including, but not limited to: newsgroups, listservs, chat rooms, FTP, and Telnet. The library does not offer dial-up accounts, e-mail accounts, provide web space, or other related Internet services. - Disclaimer
The Goshen Public Library makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the service it is providing. The Library is not responsible for the accuracy or quality of information users find on the Internet, nor is it responsible for any damages, direct or indirect, arising from the use of its Internet access. - Waiver
Users are responsible for their Internet use including the information they access and display. Parents of minor children must assume responsibility for their children’s use of or exposure to the Internet through the library. Users release the Library and its agents from any liability arising directly or indirectly from their use of the Internet.