Acceptable Use Guidelines for OSU Libraries Computers
Purpose
The Valley Library makes Research Computers available to students, faculty, staff, and the general public to provide access to information resources for the purpose of facilitating teaching, research, and public service. The intent of these guidelines is to ensure that Valley Library computers benefit the greatest number of researchers.
Academic Emphasis
Attaining the above objective requires that priority use of library research computers be for research and library resources access; such uses have preference at any time. When the number of workstations is insufficient to meet demand, non-priority activities, such as the following, will be prohibited.
- Game playing
- Reading/sending personal email
- Personal chatroom or bulletin board activities
- Recreational web surfing
Time Limit
When others are waiting to use a Research Computer, sessions are limited to 60 minutes. Researcher requiring more time should inform library staff.
Misuse of Computers
Research Computers must be used in compliance with state and federal laws and with OSU's Acceptable Use Policy. Those who violate state or federal laws or the Acceptable Use Policy may be subject to criminal or disciplinary proceedings.
Mutual Considerations and Responsibilities
The Valley Library staff is dedicated to creating a work environment that promotes research, intellectual freedom, and the sharing of information and knowledge. As stewards of a "marketplace of ideas," we will not censor materials received via the internet or deflect reference questions we find repugnant or fruitless. We strive to enhance access to information, not to impede it. We recognize that publicly supported libraries are limited public forums in which the free exchange of ideas and opinions is essential to serious and unfettered academic inquiry. In this regard, we will foster policies and procedures that respect and adhere to First Amendment rights and concerns, and implement them in uniform and even-handed ways.
Library staff also recognizes that marketplaces sometimes may be harsh or unruly, and that rights exercised beyond assumed limits may cause incivility or disruption. In practical terms, we know that some users will display and print material others feel uncomfortable viewing or find inherently objectionable. Given the public nature of our shared facilities, if such situations become pervasive, an atmosphere of discomfort is created that erodes the stability of a productive work environment. Because we encourage people to register suggestions and complaints, we assume responsibility for investigating issues and mediating uncomfortable situations by making users aware of the impact these materials have upon others.
In the end, both users and staff bear responsibility for creating a comfortable work environment. Directions pertaining to food, noise, trash, or XXX websites merely describe how we wish to live together: individuals must put principle into action. These Research Computer Guidelines attempt to uphold the purpose of the ERC, to protect the integrity of the Research Computers, and to preserve a setting conducive for teaching and learning. Library staff will work to secure these ends. We must depend upon our patrons to share these mutual considerations and to act accordingly.
