Community Patron Computer Access Policy

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to delineate the specifics of community patron computer access at St. Cloud State University. The process was created to provide community patrons with access to a greater number of computer resources, while also addressing MnSCU security concerns for greater accountability in such use.

Policy

This policy applies to community patron use of computing resources in the James W. Miller Learning Resource Center at St. Cloud State University. Patrons requesting access must complete the LR&TS Community Patron UserID Request form and present a valid passport or U.S. state-issued photo ID with expiration date (such as a driver’s license), at the time of application. Minors (under age 18) must have their parent or legal guardian complete this form as the requestor and responsible person.

UserID, Password, and Use

UserIDs , passwords, and other types of authorization are assigned to individual users and should not be shared with others. If this UserID is shared or the password divulged to anyone, the individual assigned this UserID may lose all computing privileges and may be held responsible for any actions that arise from the misuse including, but not limited to, any potential legal action. Use of this UserID and all computing resources at SCSU is subject to all applicable federal and state laws, university policies and contracts.

Data Collection, Retention, and Use

Access to and retention of individually identifiable information is subject to all applicable federal and state laws, university policies and contracts. Individually identifiable data may include login date/time and logoff date/time and Web browser bookmarks, cache and cookie files. This data may be retained up to 6 months and may be used to provide general computing usage statistics. Additionally, such data may be used internally in cases of potential misuse, and externally where legal authorities are involved.

Computing Services Provided

Community Patrons are provided access to Internet Explorer and MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access) on computers located in the James W. Miller Learning Resources Center (library). Software availability is limited by existing contracts with respective software vendors. This service does not include St. Cloud State University-provided e-mail and file storage, customized desktop or program settings, dial-up access, or access to the campus network and Internet through a personal computer.

Limits on Use

Community patrons accounts are limited to a maximum of four hours of use per day, with an aggregate total of 12 hours per week, defined as Sunday through Saturday.  Community patrons wishing to appeal these limits may petition the Dean of Learning Resources & Technology Services for an exemption or higher use limit.

Expiration and Renewal

All Community Patron UserIDs expire twice a year, on June 30 and December 31, regardless of the date the UserID is obtained. Existing UserIDs may be renewed no sooner than one week prior to the expiration date. Expired UserIDs that are not renewed will be deleted after six months.

Computer Use by Minors

St. Cloud State University does not employ filtering software or content blocking of any material found on the Internet. Parents and legal guardians should be aware that during the course of Internet use, patrons (including minors) may encounter material which could be considered objectionable or offensive. Parents and legal guardians are solely responsible for educating and monitoring the activity of a minor in their legal custody and are responsible for all activity that a minor takes during use of computing resources. Additionally, all applicable policies related to use of library resources by a minor do apply. A copy of the Policy on Use of the Miller Center Facilities and Resources by Minors can be obtained from the circulation desk, located on first floor of the Miller Center.