The University of Michigan-Flint provides information technology resources to a large number and variety of users - faculty, staff, students, and outside patrons. All users have the responsibility to use these resources in an ethical, legal, and responsible manner.
Freedom of inquiry and expression as well as an open environment for sharing information are valued, encouraged, supported, and protected at the University of Michigan-Flint. Research and instruction take many forms. Therefore, information accessible through the Internet should not be unduly restricted.
The Thompson Library's Internet resources are intended for education and information purposes. Its computers may not be used for recreational purposes such as playing games or using chatrooms. The use of e-mail, except for purely academic purposes, is strongly discouraged. The Internet, like all of the Thompson Library's information sources, must be used in a manner that respects the rights of others and does not interfere with the intended use of the information resources. University of Michigan-Flint students, faculty, and staff doing research have first priority for using the computers.
Use of the two public work stations are limited to an hour at a time. Patrons may request an extension of that time if working on job applications or other important business. Patrons using these stations must wait one half hour between sessions in order to allow others the opportunity to use the stations.
Patrons are prohibited from engaging in any activity that:
- Interferes with the intended use of the information resources
- Without authorization, destroys, alters, dismantles, disfigures, prevents rightful access to or otherwise interferes with the integrity of computer-based information and/or information resources
- Installs software, files, or any application on the hard drive of any public computer (this does not prohibit access to websites that use cookies)
- Deliberately propagates computer worms or viruses
- Seeks to gain or gains unauthorized access to information resources
- Without authorization invades the privacy of individuals or entities that are creators, authors, users, or subjects of the information resources.
- Creates an intimidating, hostile, offensive, or abusive environment for other users of the Thompson Library
Violation of these points is unacceptable, and may be a violation of University policy or a criminal offense. In accordance with established University practices, policies, and procedures, confirmation of inappropriate use of University of Michigan-Flint technology resources may result in disciplinary action. This may include, but not be limited to, termination of access, removal from the Thompson Library or from the campus, suspension or expulsion from the University, termination of employment, legal action, or other appropriate disciplinary action.
Enacted by the Frances Willson Thompson Library on May 4, 1999; modified August 8, 2001; modified April 26, 2019; in accordance with P.A. 1982, No. 455, 5 (2)