Computers in the Libraries and Responsibility of Users 

The Library cannot control and is not responsible for the content or accuracy of information accessed over the Internet, nor can we control remote server availability or Internet response time.  Any restrictions of a child's access to the Internet are the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian. 

Library computers are available for the use of authorized persons and activity only, and activity may be subject to monitoring, recording, and periodical audits. Library equipment may not be used to harass others or for any illegal activity.

Anyone using Library computer systems expressly consents to the above and to all Hartford Public Library policies and rules.

User Guidelines

• Choosing Sources

  The Internet offers a wealth of educational, recreational and cultural information that vastly increases the resources available to the Library's users. It is the user's responsibility to choose which resources to access. Be aware that the Internet is unregulated and materials accessible through it may be inaccurate, incomplete, outdated, biased, inappropriate, or offensive. Since the Library has no control over the content, individuals use it at their own risk. We caution users to access and evaluate materials online as they would a printed source.

• Courtesy to Others

  Individuals should use the Internet in a courteous, reasonable, and responsible manner. If you are using the Library's terminals, please limit your use if others are waiting. Users may not use library terminals for viewing sites that are inappropriate in a public setting or that create a disturbance.

• Assistance from Staff

  Library staff will assist individuals in the use of the Library's Homepage and offer basic instruction in the use of sites directly linked to the Library's homepage.
  Staff cannot assist users in searching through the many other sites available via the Internet. Internet users should have a minimal level of computer experience and be able to use a mouse.

• Printing

  Printing must be completed within any posted time limits. Customers may print up to five B&W pages per day at no cost, any additional B&W prints are .15 per page. Color printing is .25 per page.

Warnings & Restrictions

• Confidentiality and Privacy —  The Library does NOT guarantee that any username, password, email, credit card number, financial, or any other information entered is private or secure. We recommend you do NOT use public workstations for any financial, confidential, or private transaction.
• Users may not view sites that are inappropriate in a public setting or that create a disturbance.
• The Library complies with filtering requirements of the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) throughout the system.
• The user agrees to hold the Library harmless from any claims, losses, damages, obligations, or liabilities relating to the use of library computer, network, or other equipment, or to the use of information obtained from the Library's electronic information system.
• The Library does not maintain email accounts for users.
• At its discretion, the Library Administration reserves the right to deny minors use of the Internet when unaccompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
• The Copyright Law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the reproduction, distribution, adaptation, public performance, and public display of copyrighted material. Responsibility for any possible copyright infringement lies solely with the user. The Library disclaims any responsibility or liability resulting thereof.
• Users may not attempt in any way to alter, damage, abuse, or sabotage computer equipment or software, alter configurations, or install any software. Damage to Hartford Public Library computers and databases or attempts to access non-public areas of the network system may result in prosecution.
• Users may not use any Library computer for illegal purposes that violate local, state, or federal laws.
• Users may not disregard time limits on the use of a Library computer while others are waiting.
• The Library does not guarantee that any particular website or electronic transaction will work, or be compatible with, library equipment.

WiFi Access at the Library

Free wifi access is available at all library locations, inside and outside the buildings.