Library Computer Use Policy

Library Computer Use Policy

The George A. Smathers Libraries provide public use computers to facilitate access to locally held and remotely stored electronic data for the University of Florida community. Equipment and electronic resources are accessible during all library service hours. Staff are available to assist users in meeting their information needs with the computers.

In compliance with University of Florida policy, the Smathers Libraries require individuals to input a 14-digit number in order to use library computers. This number appears on Gator One, Special Borrower, and Library Computer Access cards, and identifies who is using a computer at a specific time.

Users of library computers must comply with the university’s Acceptable Use Policy for computing resources, with applicable contracts including software licenses, and with applicable local, state, and federal laws. Examples of applicable laws, rules and policies include the laws of libel, privacy, copyright, trademark, child pornography (see 18 U.S.C. Chapter 110, Section 2252A, and Keeney Memorandum), the Florida Computer Crimes Act, the Electronic Communications Privacy Act and the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act, which prohibit “hacking,” “cracking” and similar activities, the university’s Student Code of Conduct, and the university’s Sexual Harassment Policy

Observe copyright notices and warning screens and comply with copyright law. Digital content and materials on the Internet are protected under copyright law. Unauthorized distribution, reproduction, or transmission is illegal, and offenders are subject to prosecution.

Computers and networks are state assets. Please use them in a responsible, ethical and lawful manner.  Deliberately crashing, vandalizing, or otherwise compromising a computer or network, degrading performance; or unnecessarily consuming large amounts of system resources are serious offenses and may result in loss of library privileges and disciplinary action or criminal charges.

Respect other users of library computers and do not harass or interfere with them.

While there are no specific time limitations, the Library staff reserve the right to give computer priority use to those who are engaged in class work assignments and research.

The Libraries will report infractions of these policies to the Office of Student Affairs or the appropriate law-enforcement agency. Any infraction could result in the loss of library privileges and disciplinary action.

Child pornography, a felony in the state of Florida, is illegal and the University Police will be called immediately.

Library Computer Access Card Policy for Visitors

The Library Computer Access card allows campus visitors to register for access to library computers. Licensed databases are available for use in the Library and on campus.  The Library Computer Access card does not allow the borrowing of library materials or remote (“off-campus”) access to databases.

Campus visitors and the general public may register for a Library Computer Access card at any Smathers Libraries service desk during all hours the library is open.

A photo ID and proof of current address must be presented to obtain a Library Computer Access card. Registration requires that the Libraries record your name, address, phone number, and email address (if available).

Use the 14-digit number on the card to access the library computers. You must bring this card with you each time you use library computers.

The card issued to you will be valid for six months from the date of issue and may be renewed at any Smathers Libraries service desk.

Computers must be used in accordance with library and university policies and procedures listed above. Any violation may lead to loss of these privileges and forfeiture of your card.

 For your protection, report any lost or stolen card immediately.  When you have finished using a library computer, please log-off.