Public Equipment Use

The University Libraries support the University's teaching, research, and service 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 primary purpose of internet/world-wide web availability in the FSU Libraries is to provide access to information that will enhance and support the educational, instructional and research-related activities of students, faculty and staff. The following rules apply to use of computer equipment within the Libraries and supplement and interpret University-wide policies on use of computing resources.

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.

Internet accessible PC's are intended for the use of FSU faculty, students and staff. Nonaffiliated users are welcome to use this equipment when not needed by FSU faculty, students and staff.

The University Libraries seek to protect First Amendment Rights, including freedom of access to information, for users; also, the individual right to privacy. However, those using the Internet must be sensitive to the fact that workstations are in public areas and screen images may be viewed by others. Also, electronic media do not afford privacy in communication, especially with respect to agencies other than the library.

Guidelines for use:

  1. Computers and networks are state assets. Use them in a responsible, ethical and lawful manner. Comply with local, state and federal laws (including copyright law) in accordance with University rules and policies.
  2. 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 to FSU students, faculty and staff, email access, or setting time limits.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Entering personal or confidential information such as a social security number or credit card number may not be kept confidential on any public terminal. Proceed at your own risk.
  6. Deliberately crashing, vandalizing or otherwise disabling a computer or network, hampering performance, or consuming large amounts of system resources are serious offenses and may result in loss of library privileges and disciplinary action.