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Acceptable Use of the Internet on Public Workstations

For the purposes of this policy, public workstations include 1) Public Workstations requiring the KU Online ID and Password for login, and 2) Community Access Workstations that do not require the KU login.

The KU Libraries provide, to authorized users, open access to the Internet for academic or educatrional purposes.  Academic freedom in teaching and research and the right of freedom of speech are fundamental principles of the KU Libraries.  Accessing and viewing controversial material is protected speech.  Constitutionally protected speech is all speech not explicitly denied such protection, e.g. libel, child pornography, etc.  The Libraries support of the First Amendment also extends to endoresement of the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights, which supports access to information and opposes censorship and/or restricting access to information.  This policy upholds the individual's right to privacy, and library staff do not monitor content or censor access to materials that others may find offensive.

Using public workstations for personal viewing of material that others find offensive is not harassment as academic research and study often deals with such controversial material.  Harassment is a much more serious concern that occurs when there is a pattern of conduct directed towards  an individual or individuals, intended to humiliate or cause discomfort or fear.  Consequences of such actions are addressed in the KU Libraries' Code of Conduct for Library Users and the KU Policy on Sexual Harassment.  Users should strive to be sensitive to the diverse population accessing University computers, and all should treat others with dignity and respect.

For further information, please contact Jennifer Church-Duran, Assistant Dean of Libraries for User Services, via email or by calling 785.864.8920.