What is the Internet?
The Internet is a worldwide connection of computers linked by
telephone lines. Its global sources grow and change daily.
What will I find there?
An immense variety of information sources and opinion is available
on the Internet: government and education databases, library catalogs, commercial
and non-profit organization resources, and individual creations.
Some you will find of value and some not. Some sites
are not appropriate in a public setting.
The San Mateo County Library does not monitor access,
has no control over content on the Internet, and disclaims responsibility
for informational accuracy.
There may be better sources for your query than
the Internet. Please check with a Reference Librarian.
What Internet services does
the library provide?
We provide access to the Internet/World Wide Web using a Netscape
browser. Our connection offers Gopher and Telnet access.
The library does not setup email accounts or offer FTP.
Is there a charge?
No, there is no charge. Access to the informational resources
on the Internet is free; however, there may be fees for printing.
Is the Internet available at
all libraries?
Yes, it is available at all public libraries in San Mateo County;
however, policies regarding time, age, and reservations differ
from library to library depending on local needs.
What about children?
Although we have no age limits a child needs to be able to use
the Internet without librarian assistance. We encourage parent
participation in aiding children.
As with other library materials, restriction of a
child's access to the Internet is the responsibility of the parent
or guardian.
Help ensure safe access on the Information Highway - keep in touch
with your child's use of the Internet. We urge parents to request
a copy of "Child Safety on the Information Highway".
How do I start and what help
is available?
Librarians will help you get started but will not provide detailed
individual instruction. We encourage you to explore on your own!
A basic instruction sheet is available at the terminal and
there are a variety of resources at the library to guide your
learning.
Users' Responsibilities
Internet users are accessing this information resource in a public
environment where minors are present. All users are expected
to act in a legal, cooperative, and responsible manner.
Failure to do so could result in loss of privileges.
- Respect other users' privacy
- Observe time limits
- Use a privacy screen if what
you are viewing could be offensive to others
Do Not
- Alter or damage equipment, configurations,
or files
- Engage in any illegal activity
such as a libel, violation of copyright, etc.
- Exhibit obscene matter (Penal
Code 313 et seq.)
We provide links from our local
library Web homepages to official local Websites such as city/town
government, local schools, and the Chamber of Commerce in order
to provide easily accessible, factual information about the local
community. Links selected for this purpose must meet the
criteria used in evaluating any reference resource: authoritative,
current, accurate, relevant scope, and the content meets informational
needs.
