Acceptable use of computing and technology resources

This policy contains details around access, user conduct, use, and content with regards to computers and technology in the University Libraries.

Computers, display technologies, networks, electronic information resources and systems, and other technology devices are essential resources for accomplishing the University's mission of instruction, research, and service outreach.

Across numerous facilities, the University of Minnesota Libraries (“Libraries”) provide members of the University community shared access to these resources in support of accomplishing the University's mission. These resources are a valuable community asset to be used and managed responsibly to ensure their integrity, security, and availability for appropriate educational and research activities. All authorized users of these resources, including unaffiliated guest users, are required to use them in a responsible manner.

In using Libraries’ computing and technology resources, all users agree to abide by all relevant Libraries and University of Minnesota policies and procedures (see below) as well as all federal, state and local laws. Of particular note, users must adhere to all relevant University Information Technology Policies and, in particular, the University’s Acceptable Use of Information Technology Resources policy, which outlines acceptable and unacceptable uses, privacy and security measures, and enforcement of the policy. For use of Libraries-provided computing and technology resources, the University’s Acceptable Use policy is amplified as follows:

Access to and use of Libraries’ computing and technology resources

With few exceptions at the Libraries’ discretion, authentication is required for use of all Libraries’ computers, hardware and software, technology resources, and University networks. University policy prohibits the sharing of your University of Minnesota account, privileges granted to it, and its access credentials (i.e., passwords, login codes, etc.) with anyone else.

While unaffiliated guest users are welcome to register for and use most library computing and technology resources, priority use is given to University of Minnesota students, faculty and staff, and members of the Friends of the Libraries. These resources are primarily intended for research, study, and professional activities. Anyone using these resources may be asked to show a University identification card or guest user access card. There may be restrictions on some workstations, equipment and software applications in the Libraries, based on workstation location, licensing terms, and/or demand for use.

Users of workstations shall not make any attempt to damage computer equipment or software, alter software configuration, conduct any malicious activities using University networks or data, or engage in any illegal or criminal activities.

User conduct

Users of these resources are in a public facility and expected to show consideration for others. Users are expected to abide by the Library Use Policy and other relevant policies. Anyone engaging in unacceptable conduct may be denied further access to Libraries’ privileges, technology resources and/or facilities.

Acceptable use of electronic information resources

Electronic information resources made available by the University Libraries to Twin Cities Campus students, staff, faculty, and other authorized users are for instructional, research, and other activities that support the University's mission. Contractual license agreements and U.S. Copyright Law govern the access, use, and reproduction of these resources as outlined in the University Libraries' policy on Acceptable Use of Electronic Resources.

Internet content

Libraries’ workstations provide unfiltered access to the Internet. Patrons should be aware that some Internet sites may contain materials that some find offensive or controversial.

This policy and Libraries’ practices are consistent with the University Regents' Policy on Academic Freedom and Responsibility (and Appendix), and the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights and Intellectual Freedom Principles for Academic Libraries.