The Anchorage Public Library offers access to computers and computer-based resources at all locations. If you have a library card, you have full privileges to use our services without restrictions, otherwise patrons may ask for a guest pass to use our desktop computers. The policy governs the management of computers and usage, internet, and computer networks that are owned and administered by the Library.
Desktop Computers
Desktop computers with Internet access are available at all library locations. Stations are offered on a first come, first served basis. Guests who do not have an APL card may request a guest pass. Patrons who sign in with an APL card receive additional time, unless there are extenuating circumstances.
Laptops/Tablets/Chromebooks/MIFI
- Laptops and tablets are available on a first come first served basis to check out for in-library use only. To checkout a laptop or tablet you must have a verified APL card in good standing. Only one device can be checked out per library card at one time. Laptops and tablets will not be checked out less than 30 minutes before closing and must be returned 15 minutes before closing. Most devices are only available to patrons 18 and older, and you may be required to show picture ID. Some locations may have additional devices available for youth checkout, these devices can only access our filtered Wireless Internet. Check with library staff at your location for device options.
- Chromebooks and MIFI may be checked out of the library by adults and are subject to circulation policies.
The Anchorage Public Library (APL) provides public access to the internet in support of its mission and ensures equal access to all. Because APL's computers are in public areas, guests may be involuntarily exposed to what others are viewing. We ask that users remain sensitive to the fact that the computers are in a public environment shared by people of all ages. If you disrupt other library patrons and/or services, or your behavior is inappropriate for a library setting, we reserve the right to ask you to stop viewing the disruptive material, or to end your session. Please refer to the APL Code of Conduct.
Acceptable Use
Use of the Library’s computers shall be guided by the following principles:
- Respect for the privacy of others.
- Adherence to the legal protection provided by copyright and license to programs and data.
- Consideration for the security and functioning of computers, networks, and systems.
- Adherence to APL and MOA policies governing the security and functioning of computers, networks, and systems.
Unacceptable Use
- Any activity which violates U.S., state, or local laws.
- Transmitting threatening, obscene, or harassing materials.
- Intentional or unintentional disruption of network users, services or equipment, harm to other computer systems including excessive bandwidth utilization.
- Tampering with computer or network security.
- Disconnecting library equipment, including monitors, network cables and electrical cords.
- Making unauthorized entry into any systems accessible via Library computers.
- Failure to follow library policies, including but not limited to: failing to log in using your own library card number or guest card number, failing to pay for printing, and not following time limits.
- Developing and/or propagating programs that harass other users or cause harm to other computer systems.
- Copying, file sharing, downloading, or distributing commercial software or other works or materials (i.e. music, movies, etc.) that violates copyright laws.
- Accessing or loading pornographic, obscene, or sexually explicit material.
- Other uses deemed inappropriate at the discretion of APL management.
- Downloading or transmitting confidential, trade secret information, or copyrighted materials.
- Engaging in any activity that is deliberately offensive or creates an intimidating or hostile environment is prohibited.
- Displaying or printing materials that violate the Municipality of Anchorage policy on sexual harassment are prohibited.
- It is a violation of federal law to knowingly receive visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
- Anyone who does so is subject to federal criminal prosecution under the Protection of Children against Sexual Exploitation Act of 1977 (18 USC 2252).
Response to Violations
- Illegal activities or activities that interfere with or disrupt the network, users, services, or equipment are prohibited and not protected by the library's privacy policy.
- We do not routinely monitor public computers but reserve the right to do so when a violation of this policy or illegal activity is suspected.
- Staff is authorized to take immediate action to protect the security of computers and the network, and to enforce all computer/Internet/Wi-Fi rules.
- This includes confiscating any removable media, requiring a user to leave a computer or the premises, and contacting law enforcement.
- Failure to comply with all laws, policies, and procedures may result in loss of computer privileges, library privileges, or prosecution in some cases.
The Internet provides access to a wealth of information far beyond our physical collection. Much of the information can be valuable and enlightening; however, some materials are unreliable, personally offensive, or illegal. APL cannot police a global network. As such, each individual user must be responsible for their own activities on the Internet and for the activities of any minor children they are responsible for. APL does not provide privacy screens and no expectations of privacy is guaranteed.
Whether or not internet sessions are filtered is based on the type of card used to login. Cards for individuals over the age of 18 are minimally filtered and cards for individuals under the age of 18 are CIPA (Child Internet Protection Act) filtered. We are not responsible for an individual over the age of 18 giving a minor access to their card and unfiltered session.
Confidentiality and Privacy
- When a computer session ends, all information about that session is ordinarily deleted. APL erases all patron use records except those essential for library business operations.
- APL does not retrieve any information including websites visited, passwords, credit card numbers, or any other information a patron has entered.
- APL will release records, including those relating to Internet usage, only as required by law.
Children and the Internet
- To comply with federal regulations, all public access computers at APL are filtered.
- Although filtering software aims to block access to objectionable sites, it cannot block all objectionable sites and it sometimes blocks useful sites.
- APL upholds and affirms the right and responsibility of parents, guardians, or caregivers to determine and monitor their children’s use of library materials and resources including the Internet. APL will not act in loco parentis if the caregiver is not present.
- Library staff is available to help identify and locate resources to help parents, guardians, and caregivers oversee their children’s use of the Internet.
Municipality of Anchorage and APL’s Role
- Staff is available to provide assistance identifying sites and to help with issues specific to the library’s procedures, e.g., how to print or reserve a computer.
- Staff will provide this assistance as time allows.
- The Municipality of Anchorage, APL, and their Internet service providers do not control and are not responsible for Internet content.
APL offers wireless Internet access in all its libraries. By using our free wireless service (Wi-Fi), you agree to abide by the library’s Internet use policy and APL Code of Conduct.
- The library’s wireless network is public and not secure. Use of APL Wi-Fi is entirely at the risk of the user.
- By choosing to connect to APL Wi-Fi, you signify understanding that there are risks associated with use (e.g., sensitive personal information being compromised and/or potential damages to your hardware or software caused by electric surges, security issues, or consequences caused by viruses or hacking).
- APL disclaims all liability for loss of confidential information or damages resulting from intentional use of APL Wi-Fi.
- Library staff can provide general information for connecting your device to the wireless network but cannot troubleshoot problems related to your wireless device or assist in making changes to your device's network settings and/or hardware configuration.
- The library cannot guarantee that your device will work with the library's wireless access points.
Recommended for approval: Mary Jo Torgeson, Library Director
Approved by: Library Advisory Board, August 19, 2020