Historically, public library systems in New York were established to encourage and facilitate resource sharing; provide economies of scale in the utlilization of tax monies; and to offer professional education and assistance to local libraries. By providing access to the Internet through the Four County Library System computer network we continue to fulfill our traditional role through new and innovative means.

The Internet, as an information resource, enables Four County Library System and member libraries to provide information beyond the confines of existing local collections. It allows access to information, ideas, and commentary from around the globe. Currently, however, it is an unregulated medium which means that while it offers access to a wealth of material that is personally, professionally, and culturally enriching to individuals of all ages, it also enables access to material that falls outside the scope of many library collection development policies.

By offering the Internet as an information resource, Four County Library System's goal is to enhance the collections (in size, depth, and currency) and reference services of member libraries.

Four County Library System staff will work cooperatively with staff of member libraries to identify specific starting points for searches to place on the main Internet menu of the shared computer system that match the member libraries' missions and service roles.

It is impossible for Four County Library System to successfully control or monitor the vast amount of material accessible from the Internet connection. This is uniqued to traditional collection selection practices. Thus, individual users must accept responsibility for determining the suitability and accuracy of content found during their Internet searches. Parents must assume responsibility for their minor children's use of the Internet through the Four County Library System's connection. Four County Library System will not assume in loco parentis status.

Member libraries must decide for themselves the number of Internet workstations to make available for the public. Likewise, member libraries may establish unique policies and procedures regarding the use of this Internet connection that is purchased through 4CLS. Member libraries that subscribe to this Internet connection must also abide by any policies and procedures approved by the Board of Trustees of the Four County Library System regarding this service.

The Four County Library System encourages member libraries to publicize this policy in every way suitable and by all means possible which will be read and understood by potential users.
Approved by the Four County Library System Board of Trustees November 18, 1995.