Computer Use Policy

The University of New Mexico-Los Alamos Library provides access to computers in support of the education, research, and public service mission of the Library. The UNM-Los Alamos Library provides computing services to University faculty, staff, students, retirees, and other guest users 18 years of age or older, for the purpose of accessing collections and other information resources and services for academic purposes. These academic purposes may include research, resource discovery that fulfills class assignments, enhancement of career development, support of instruction, and promotion of University related goals and objectives. Use of computers for playing Internet games and for other recreational purposes is not allowed.

Patrons wishing to use a computer must check out a mouse and leave a photo I.D. at the library circulation desk. Mice may be checked out for a four-hour period. If more time is needed, please ask for assistance at the circulation desk.

Congregating and socializing at computer work stations is prohibited. Please use the Student Center for socializing purposes. If computer access is necessary for completion of a group project requiring discussion among group members, please keep discussions at computer stations as quiet as possible.

Computing resources in the Library are provided primarily for use by students, staff, and faculty of the University of New Mexico-Los Alamos. UNM-Los Alamos students, staff, and faculty have priority when an insufficient number of computers are available in the Library. The Library reserves the right to limit the amount of time a guest may occupy a computer.

Use of Library computing resources is a privilege. Individuals using the resources are expected to do so in an appropriate, ethical, and lawful manner that demonstrates respect for the rights of other users and recognizes the importance of civility and responsibility. All computer use must be in accordance with University Policies 2500 (Acceptable Computer Use), 2520 (Computer Security Controls and Guidelines), 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.

Due to the public nature of the UNM-Los Alamos Library, individuals should be aware of and respect the desire of others not to be inadvertently exposed to material and images that they find disruptive or offensive. Users may not use library public computers with the intent to intimidate, harass, or display hostility toward others, e.g., sending offensive messages or prominently displaying material that others might find offensive such as vulgar language, explicit sexual material, or material from hate groups.

The following rules apply to use of computing equipment within the UNM-Los Alamos Library:

Downloading from library databases is permitted and encouraged within the provisions of copyright law and contract provisions. Users will need to provide their own storage devices (CD-RW, or flash drives) or email downloaded information to their e-mail accounts.

The Library is not responsible for any damage done to computer users disks, drives, data hardware, or software as a result of the malfunctioning of library hardware or software.

Users may not make changes to computer settings or configurations. Information and programs saved to the hard drive are automatically deleted upon reboot.

Productivity software, including the Microsoft Office Suite, is installed on UNM-Los Alamos Library computers to aid in conducting research and completing coursework for assignments. Printing is available to print documents and other information related to course research and assignments free of charge; however, if it is necessary to print more than 25 pages at a time, please see a librarian to make arrangements.

In compliance with University of New Mexico Policy 2520, UNM-Los Alamos Library computers may not be used for commercial purposes or profit-making.

Many of the resources found on the Internet/Worldwide Web are copyright protected. Although the Internet is a different medium from printed text, ownership and intellectual property rights still exist. Check the documents for appropriate statements indicating ownership. Most of the electronic software and journal articles available on library servers and computers are also copyrighted. Duplication of information is limited in accordance with Fair Use compliance provisions as stated within the federal copyright laws.

Consequences of Misuse:

The UNM-Los Alamos Library reserves the right to request that users cease using computer equipment and/or to leave the library if they are found to be in violation of any part of this policy, and may deny further access to library computing resources for repeat offenders. The Library will pursue infractions or misconduct through the campus disciplinary channels and/or law enforcement as appropriate, which include contacting the Associate Director of Student Services, campus security, and the Los Alamos Police Department when necessary, and filing an incident report, in addition to a police report.

Disclaimers:

The UNM-Los Alamos Library cannot control the information available over the Internet and is not responsible for its content. The Internet contains a wide variety of material, expressing many points of view. Not all sources provide information that is accurate, complete or current, and some may be offensive or disturbing to some viewers. Users should properly evaluate Internet resources according to their academic and research needs. Links to other Internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement by the library of the content or views contained therein. Use of library computers implies acceptance of this policy.

This policy incorporates the following University of New Mexico Policies:

Acceptable Computer Use (Policy # 2500)
Computer Use Guidelines (Policy # 2520)
Computer Security Controls and Guidelines (Policy # 2520)
Sexual Harassment Policy (Policy # 3780)
Campus Violence (Policy # 2210)

This policy also incorporates the following:

The American Library Association Access to Electronic Information Services, and Networks
Federal Protection of Children Act, 18 U.S.C., Section 1465, or in violation of New Mexico law prohibiting the display of sexually explicit matters in an establishment frequented by children
USA Patriot Act of 2001 - 50 U.S.C, Section 1862
Doctrine of Fair Use, 17 U.S.C.. Section 107