Public Computer Terminals and Internet Access

Updates:

• 03-21-2025: Updated text and format to meet new library policy standards, updated narrative, update link for NIU Acceptable Use Policy.

Policy Narrative

There are four computer terminals set aside for use by the public on the 1st floor next to the printer area in the Founders Learning Commons. These computers may be used for library research or general internet use. During busy times or when others are waiting, you may be asked to limit your session time to 30 minutes. All other computers in Founders Memorial Library require logging in with NIU credentials.

Internet Access

The primary purpose of public computers in the University Libraries is to provide NIU community members with access to information which supports learning, teaching, and scholarly research. Use of the computers for these purposes will have priority over other uses. The University Libraries’ service commitment extends beyond the immediate NIU community by making available public access terminals for those not affiliated with NIU, on a conditional basis. All other library computers require an NIU accountID and password to access. The library welcomes all who may benefit from access to the Internet, and advocates the user’s right to privacy and confidentiality. However, it is essential that users be considerate in the employment of shared resources. The use of the public access terminals is a privilege and not a right.

The University Libraries offer access, assistance, guidance, and instruction in the use of the Internet. The library neither filters information available over the Internet nor makes guarantees over the quality of information. Library users should be aware that electronic transmissions cannot be completely secure or private, and should be sensitive to the fact that workstations are in public areas. In the pursuit of learning, teaching, and scholarly research, library users may from time to time view images that may be deemed offensive or objectionable. In such circumstances, observers may want to relocate to another computer.

Children 12 years of age or younger must be accompanied by an adult parent, teacher, legal guardian, or care provider, who, in turn, will be responsible for the child’s use of the Internet. It is not appropriate or practical for library staff to monitor children’s computer use. Children will be expected to follow the guidelines outlined in this policy and will be held to the same standards of behavior as other library patrons.

In order to assure equitable access and prevent monopolization of resources, a thirty-minute limit per session will be enforced during periods of high demand.

Examples of activities prohibited on public access workstations:

• Attempts to circumvent or subvert security measures, or engage in activities harmful to the system or station.
• Use of computers in any way which violates federal or state law, the Northern Illinois University Acceptable Use Policy or in any way violates the licensing and payment agreements between the University Libraries and its database vendors.
• Activities that contribute to breach of the peace or create a hostile environment for others.
• Recreational game playing.
• Internet telephony.
• Use of the computers for commercial purposes or gain.

The NIU Libraries reserve the right to terminate an individual’s access to the library’s computer and networking resources. Continued violations will result in the individual being banned from the library.