University of Washington, Bothell

Policy on the Use of Libraries Public Computer Equipment

The University Libraries support the University’s and Cascadia Community College’s teaching, research, and clinical functions. The Libraries’ public computer equipment is provided to enable library users to access the collections and other information resources and services in support of curriculum and research needs. The following rules apply to use of computer equipment within the Libraries and supplement and interpret University-wide policies on use of computing resources. The University-wide policies are available on the World Wide Web at http://www.washington.edu/computing/rules.html.

Use of computing resources is a privilege that depends on individuals using the resources appropriately and in accordance with University policies and local, state, and federal laws. These laws and policies cover such areas as illegal access to computer systems, networks, and files; copyright; and harassment issues.

First priority for use is accorded to University of Washington and Cascadia Community College students, faculty, and staff.

At times, the demand for library computer equipment exceeds the number available. Users are asked to be sensitive to the needs of others and limit equipment use during time of heavy demand. The Libraries may take additional steps to regulate computer use, such as restricting email access or setting time limits.

Due to the public nature of the Libraries, individuals should demonstrate respect for individuals’ rights to privacy and freedom from intimidation or harassment. Users are asked to be sensitive to the fact that some on-screen images, sounds, or messages might create an atmosphere of intimidation or harassment for others. The Libraries may take steps to maintain an environment conducive to study and research.

Downloading from library databases is permitted and encouraged within the provisions of copyright law and contract provisions. Interested users should provide their own properly formatted diskettes or save to the student file server.

Users may not make changes to computer settings or configurations, except for those permitted by the Libraries.

Users may not download and/or install software or software upgrades on UWB/CCC Campus Library public computer equipment.

Users may not download/upload, save, or otherwise transfer files to the hard drive (C:) of UWB/CCC Campus Library public computer equipment unless otherwise permitted.

Use of computer equipment for recreational purposes such as game playing deters others from using workstations for educational or research purposes, and otherwise makes the Libraries less conducive to study. These activities are therefore prohibited, and recreational users will be asked to relinquish their use of computer equipment.

Library users failing to comply with the conditions of this Policy may be subject to actions outlined in the Policy on Libraries Disruptions (Operations Manual, Vol. 1, Section B, No. 4).