HomeMy WebLinkAboutPolicy of Confidentiality of Library Transactions and Patron Files 2003Policy of Confidentiality of Library Transactions and Patron Files
It is library policy that what individuals read, view, or listen to is a matter of personal
privacy, protected by a state law (RCW 42.17 .310) which establishes the confidentiality
of library records. Under this policy, library staff members may not tell employers,
government agencies, school personnel, relatives, or others what books, videos, cassettes,
or other materials are checked out to a card holder without a court order requiring that the
records be provided and a public hearing of which the patron is notified. All library
transactions are considered to be confidential in nature.
The library upholds the right of a card holder to be given foil, confidential access to
available library resources no matter what political or intellectual atmosphere prevails.
Every person of any age who has a Port Townsend Public Library card has the right to
borrow any item in the library's collection and is eligible for all services offered.
Although the Port Townsend Public Library makes every effort to protect patron privacy,
under the federal USA PATRIOT ACT (Public Law 107-56), records of the books and
other materials borrowed from this library may be obtained by federal agents with a court
order. Unlike the Washington State law this federal law prohibits library workers from
informing a patrons if federal agents have obtained their library records.
Ways the Library Protects Patron Privacy
• Library computer sign-up lists are shredded at the end of each week.
• If materials are returned on time, they are removed from the patron's record at
check in. "Last patron" information is attached to each library item for two weeks
after check in, to help the library determine responsibility for damages and
missing parts.
• Interlibrary Loan records are shredded one month after the items are returned.
• We retain no long term records of the materials and equipment patrons have used
and returned.
Revised and Approved 6/26/2003