LITC enforces obscene material policy

The Library Instructional Technology Center notified Public Safety after an individual was caught looking at explicit material on a school computer on the morning of Sept. 5.According to the Public Safety report, the individual who was allegedly viewing illicit material was first asked to leave the library. The man complied, but soon returned to the library. Two police officers were then dispatched to the library where they escorted the offender, who admitted to being asked twice to obey library policies, off the property.

Library policy, as stated on the general acceptable use of technology resources policy, explains that university computers are not to be used for distributing obscene materials, including material depicting sexual intercourse, masturbation, excretion, bestiality and sadomasochism. All non-student users are also required to sign a waiver holding them responsible for any misuse or damage done to library equipment they use. All users must comply with the policies or lose authorization to use library technology.

The alleged offender was reportedly discovered using the Apple computers located near the Books & Brew. These public-use computers, along with the string of computers across from the first floor front desk, have been strategically placed in range of both desks, allowing library employees to observe the online activities of library patrons while working.

“That’s why they’re there,” said computer science major Rob Manning on the computers’ placement. “They should be able to see (who is using them).”

The library staff continues to develop new security measures. Cameras monitored by Public Safety officials cover the open lobby areas as well as the enclosed computer rooms and corridors. The library restricts access to non-students from 11:30 p.m. to 7 a.m., assuring that unauthorized entry will most likely be spotted by several patrons.

As for the newest security devices, the project currently under development at the library is the panic button system; according to Zhouyan Xie, Georgia College graduate and current technology support services coordinator, these buttons are to be installed under the front desk, reference desk, Books & Brew and select computer desks.

“We are trying to put the panic buttons in this week,” Xie said.

According to Xie, should a library employee feel threatened, a push of the button will send an alert signal to campus security.

Public Safety did not release the identity of the offender but they have suspended the individual from entering university grounds for the next 10 years. Library staff has not revealed the websites that were viewed. As for library patrons’ response, the reaction seemed unsympathetic to the man’s situation.

“I think 10 years is a little over the top. I understand the concept because it makes GCSU look bad when people are looking at inappropriate stuff online,” said freshman pre-early childhood education major Clint Burkett. “But maybe one or a two year ban would have been better.”

Posted by Kyle Shanahan on Sep 22 2011. Filed under News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.