Albemarle Regional Library Wireless Network Access Policy
Currently Albemarle Regional Library
offers FREE wireless access (aka "hot spots" & "WiFi" ) at one location for library patrons to use
with their own personal notebooks, laptops and other mobile devices. These access points are unsecured, accessible only during
normal library hours and filtered to comply with CIPA regulations. A patron's
use of this service is also governed by the Library's Internet Policy.
Due to the proliferation of WiFi networks, Library users may also be able to access
other WiFi networks within the branch that are not
provided by the Library. Use of these non-Library wireless networks within the
Library's facilities is also governed by the Library's Internet Policy.
NOTE:
As with most public wireless
"hot spots," the library's wireless connection is not secure. There
can be untrusted parties between you and anybody with whom you communicate
with, and any information being transmitted could potentially be intercepted by
another wireless user. Cautious and informed wireless users should choose not
to transmit personal information (credit card numbers, passwords and any other
sensitive information) while using any wireless "hot spot." Please
take appropriate precautions when using this service.
Library staff can provide a handout
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.
All wireless access users should
have up-to-date virus protection on their laptop computers or wireless devices.
The library will not be responsible for any information (i.e. credit card) that
is compromised, or for any damage caused to your hardware or software due to
electric surges, security issues or consequences caused by viruses or hacking.
Printing access is not available via
the wireless connection. If you need to print, please save your work to a flash
drive or email files to yourself, then login to a wired library workstation and
send jobs to the public printer.
All users are expected to use the
library's wireless access in a legal and responsible manner, consistent with
the educational and informational purposes for which it is provided.
Use of the Library's wireless network
is entirely at the risk of the user. The library disclaims all liability for
loss of confidential information or damages resulting from that loss.
Wireless FAQs:
The Library offers FREE wireless
access (aka "hotspots" & "WiFi")
for library patrons to use with their own personal notebooks, laptops and other
mobile devices. These access points are unsecured, accessible only during
normal library hours and filtered to comply with CIPA regulations. A patron's
use of this service is governed by the Library's Wireless Network Access
Policy.
What do I need to access the
wireless network?
To access the Library's wireless network, you need a laptop (or suitable PDA or
other portable device) equipped with an 802.11 b or g compatible wireless card.
Some portable devices have wireless cards built-in while others may require you
to purchase a compatible card to plug into it. Installation of the card and its
associated software will vary depending upon specific device, card and
operating system. Your device must be configured DHCP and you cannot have a
proxy configured on your browser. Library staff cannot assist you in making
changes to the devices network settings and/or hardware configuration, nor can
the Library provide network cards for your
use.
How do I connect?
In most cases, you should be able to connect with the wireless network by
simply scanning for the network and opening up a browser to start surfing.
Details on configuring your portal device for a wireless network may vary
depending upon specific models, operating system, and wireless card. For
specific information on how to configure or troubleshoot your wireless
connection, you will need to refer to your device's documentation.
Can I print from the wireless
network?
No, there are no printers configured on the wireless network. To print, you
will need to use one of the Library's public access computers.
Is the wireless network secured?
Like most public access "hotspots", the Library's wireless network in
not secured. There can be untrusted parties between you and anybody you
communicate with, and any information being transmitted could potentially be
intercepted by another wireless user. Cautious and informed wireless users
should choose not to transmit their credit card information, passwords and any
other sensitive personal information while using any wireless "hot
spot." Please take appropriate precautions when using this service. All
wireless access users should have up-to-date virus protection on their laptop
computers or wireless devices to assist in protecting them from harm.
Can I access the Library's catalog
and electronic databases through the Wireless Network?
Yes, access to both the Library catalog and electronic databases are available
through the Library web site (www.arlnc.org). Due to varying network
configurations at locations, you may or may not be required to enter your
library card number for access.
What if I have problems? Can Library
staff assist?
Library staff cannot provide you technical assistance in configuring your
portal device or troubleshooting wireless access problems. There is no
guarantee that your wireless device will work with network. The Library assumes
no responsibility for the safety or security of a patron's personal equipment
resulting from the connection to the Library's wireless network.
Approved by the Albemarle Regional Library Board of
Trustees on January 25, 2012