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Internet Use Policy

To use a computer, sign in with your Mentor Public Library card. Enter the number under the barcode, all 14 digits with no spaces. At the Main Library, sign-in is through the Envisionware station in the Internet Area, at a free computer, or at the reference desk. All of our computers have Microsoft Office 2003 and are capable of both black & white and color printing.

Use of the Internet computer will be on a first-come basis. Patrons may use the computer for 60-minute sessions. If no other patrons are waiting, additional time may be granted up to a maximum of 4 hours per day.

Some uses of the Internet are strictly prohibited. These include but are not limited to the following:

  1. Illegal activities (violations of local, state or federal laws)
  2. Harassment of others
  3. Violation of Mentor Public Library network security measures
  4. Unauthorized copying of copyright protected materials
  5. Unauthorized access of computer accounts by use of passwords, access codes, or network identification numbers assigned to others
  6. Disrupting the use of the Internet by other patrons
  7. Sending, receiving or displaying text or graphics which can be construed as obscene as defined by Ohio Revised Code 2907.01.
Misuse of MPL's technology to disrupt MPL network functions is strictly prohibited. Abuse of Mentor Public Library's acceptable Internet use guidelines may result in revocation of the user's technology privileges in addition to legal prosecution.

Updated July, 2007

Wireless @ MPL

Mentor Public Library provides free wireless access at the Main Library via our HotSpot during regular library hours. We ask that laptop users follow these general policies:

  • Please turn off any audible sound if you use your laptop computers in the library, or use headphones. The library does not provide headphones.
  • Signal strength and performance will vary within the library depending on the location of the equipment that produces the radio signals, so some areas of our buildings may not have wireless service or may have slower internet service.
  • Although the wireless internet service is usually available, it is not guaranteed and during times of high use or technical problems the wireless service may not be available.
  • MPL has a limited number of public tables and seating, and not all seating is within easy reach of electrical outlets. Be prepared for your computer to be self-powered. Do not block or cross aisles or floors with extension or power cords. Your power cord cannot constitute a trip hazard or otherwise block access for library patrons or staff. Please do not move chairs or tables to electrical outlets.

laptop

Wireless & Laptop FAQs

Where can I use my laptop?

Besides our first floor HotSpot, here are other places where you may use your laptop: There are small tables reserved for laptop users between the columns on the north side of the public computer area, the long table in the Grey Matters area, the Garfield Room when it is not reserved, the Frances Cleveland Room when it is not reserved.

Is the library's wireless network secured?

No, the library's wireless network is not secure. Any information you enter or display, including e-mail, can be captured by anyone with a wireless device and the appropriate software within several hundred feet. The library strongly urges you not to enter passwords, PIN numbers, account numbers or other private information while using the wireless network, and cautions that using the wireless network for e-mail may allow other people to read your e-mail. Use web based e-mail that employs encrypted (https) access if you absolutely must use e-mail.

Can I print from my laptop?

No, we do not currently have a way for laptop users to use our network printers.

Can you help me connect to your wireless network?

Our staff can provide some assistance with our wireless network, depending on your hardware and operating system.