Ephraim Public Library Board Adopts Updated Internet Use Policy

The Ephraim Public Library Board voted June 3 to adopt an updated Internet and computer use policy, board members said at a meeting in Ephraim City Hall. The policy, condensed from the prior version, includes references the board said are required for state reporting and the Children’s Internet Protection Act and lists a next review date in July.

Board members read the one-page draft together and discussed how to treat teen gaming and computer access. A board member noted that patrons’ computer permissions can be marked in the library system and that parents are asked whether children should have access when they first receive a library card. After brief clarification, a motion to adopt the policy was made and seconded. The board took a voice vote; members said “all ayes” and recorded no nays. The presenter offered to send the policy electronically so board members can sign and the document can be filed in the library’s Google drive.

The policy will be posted in the library and submitted to the state as part of the library’s three-year review materials, the board said. At the meeting staff referenced compliance with Utah code and the Children’s Internet Protection Act as part of the reason for updating the language.

The board also agreed the policy should be concise and easy for patrons to read on first use of the public computers. Staff said they will provide copies to parents when cards are issued and will mark in the system whether a patron has permission to use computers.

The board’s adoption of the policy is effective immediately; the presenter said he will circulate the document electronically for signatures and file the signed copy with other board materials.