Technology, Computers & the Library

Laptop Borrowing Policy

Laptop computers are available at the Circulation Desk, Biscayne Bay and Modesto A. Maidique campuses. The laptops represent a significant investment in providing University users with a technology service. Your respect for the equipment and the rights of other patrons will be appreciated. If you have any questions please ask.

• Laptop computers are available for currently enrolled FIU faculty, staff, and currently enrolled students only.
• You must have a current Panther ID (Library) Card for the checkout process. Other forms of ID are not accepted.
• Laptops may be used outside the Library, however you are responsible for returning the laptop on time and in good condition.
• The loan period is 3 hours.
• Renewals are not guaranteed. If someone is waiting to use a laptop, you will need to relinquish the laptop for the waiting patron. You will be given a beeper for the next available unit.
• Late charges will be imposed. Overdue fines are set at $30 for the first hour overdue, and $30 per hour thereafter, until billed for replacement. Partial hours count as a full hour overdue.
• Laptop clocks are not accurate and are not to be used to calculate due time.
• A charge for the full replacement value will be imposed if the laptop is not returned after 24 hours from time due, or is lost or stolen.
• If damage occurs to any components or accessories, charges will be imposed as appropriate.
• Never leave a laptop unattended -- you are responsible for the laptop until you have returned it and it is checked in.
• Billing charges will be assessed if the laptop is lost or stolen while checked out to you.
• Return the laptop to a library staff member at the Circulation Desk. Do not place the laptop in the Return slot.

Connections, Printing & Saving

• Printers are located throughout the library, and requires purchase of a copycard. You may print from the laptop to any of the public networked printers in the library. Printing charges will apply.
• Documents must be saved to floppy disk or to flash drives. You must provide your own disks.
• Each laptop is equipped with wireless network access. Wireless signal strength varies.
• A limited number of accessories are available for separate checkout, including mouses, headphones, etc.

Internet Access

The purpose of Internet / World Wide Web access in the FIU Libraries is to make available Internet resources that will support and enhance the educational, instructional, and research activities of the University Community on and off campus.

The University Libraries seek to protect First Amendment Rights, including freedom of access to information, for users; also, the individual right to privacy. However, those using the Internet must be sensitive to the fact that workstations are in public areas and screen images may be viewed by others. Also, electronic media do not afford privacy in communication, especially with respect to agencies other than the library indispensible for electronic communication.

FIU library staff offer assistance and instruction in the use of the Internet as a research and information resource. They do not censor access or protect patrons from information that they may find offensive.

As with other library resources, parents, legal guardians, or care providers are responsible for their children's use of the Internet and for intentional or inadvertent viewing or reading of other patrons' screens by accompanying children.

Materials obtained or copied on the Internet may be subject to copyright laws that govern making reproductions of copyrighted works. A work protected by copyright may not be copied without permission of the copyright owner unless the proposed use falls within the definition of "Fair Use." Patrons are responsible for compliance with all international, national, and state laws governing copyrighted materials.

Under no circumstances will the FIU Libraries have any liability for lost profits or for any direct or indirect special, punitive, or consequential damages, or any liability to any third party (even if the Libraries are advised of the possibility of such danger) arising from use of its connection to the Internet.

Consistent with the above, the FIU Libraries adhere to the ALA Library Bill of Rights. Internet users should, however, be aware of applicable University regulations governing display of sexually suggestive materials in the workplace as well as in public areas of the library and be reminded, once again, that the purpose of providing Internet access is to further the instruction and research mission of the University and those who comprise its community.

10/22/09