McQuade Library Internet Use Policy

Philosophy

In keeping with our mission as a core academic service providing access to information useful to the college, McQuade Library offers free, equal, and unrestricted access to the Internet. The primary purpose of Internet access at McQuade Library is for research in support of teaching and learning activities of Merrimack College.

The Internet is a global electronic network that provides access to ideas, information, and commentary from millions of sources around the globe enabling the library to provide resources beyond its own collection. While much of the information on the Internet is valuable to researchers, it also contains material that may be offensive, disturbing, illegal, incomplete, or inaccurate. McQuade Library does not monitor and has no control over the information accessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its content. Availability of networked information via library computers including links to specific sites provided on our Web site does not constitute the library's endorsement of the information. Users at McQuade Library are responsible for evaluating information on the Internet for reliability, accuracy, and validity.

McQuade Library respects the users’ right to privacy and confidentiality regarding online use and use history. Users must understand, however, that a guarantee of complete security is currently technically impossible.

McQuade Library upholds and affirms the right of each individual to have access to constitutionally protected material.

Parents, guardians or care providers are responsible for their children's use of the Internet at McQuade Library.

Priority is given to students, faculty ,and staff of Merrimack College in accessing library computers.

Library staff is available to offer assistance and instruction in the use of the Internet as a research and information resource.

Internet Use Rules

Individuals are expected to use the Internet in a responsible manner.

  1. McQuade Library computers will not be used for activity that violates federal, state, or local laws, or to access illegal materials.
  2. Users may not attempt in any way to alter, damage, abuse, or sabotage computer equipment or software; alter configurations; or install any software.
  3. Users will follow copyright laws and licensing agreements.
  4. Users will respect the privacy of other users.
  5. Priority in computer use is given to academic use. Other uses, including non-academic web browsing, electronic mail, game playing, and participation in chat rooms, forums, and news groups are considered secondary activities and the library may require that no secondary activities take place if they interfere with the purpose of supporting instruction and research.

Library staff will intervene with appropriate action to ensure compliance with this Internet Use Policy. Misuse of library computers may result in the suspension or loss of privilege to use them.

This policy does not apply to the Computer Lab on the second floor of the library. That lab is maintained by Information Technology Services.