Privacy
ALA
web page with text of USA PATRIOT ACT
Resolution
to Support Amendment of the USA PATRIOT ACT
and Reafirm the Role of the Public Library
as a Foundation of Democracy in Whatcom County
Confidentiality in the Library - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the library’s
policy on confidentiality?
Whatcom County Library System is committed to protecting the confidentiality
of those who use the Library. Confidentiality extends to all personally identifiable
uses of library materials, facilities or services.
Authority for this comes from RCW Title 42, section 17 and from WCLS policies.
Who may access my records?
Only you are entitled to information about your own record, unless you authorize
otherwise. When items are overdue for a minor’s card, the titles
will be released to parents or guardians.
Library records will be released or made available in to a federal agent, law enforcement officer, or other person when a court order in proper form has been entered by a court of competent jurisdiction after a showing of good cause.
The FBI may obtain library records by following procedures established under the USA PATRIOT ACT.
What information about me
is available from the library?
• WCLS only keeps records of patron transactions involving payments, such
as overdue fines and payments for lost materials. These records are kept for
two years.
• The library does not keep records of Internet signups.
• The library does not keep lists of items that you have previously checked
out or requested.
What else can I do to protect
my privacy while using the library?
• Return your items on time, since records are kept of transactions involving
payments
Where can I find further
information?
The American Library Association has in-depth information on confidentiality
and privacy issues at: http://www.ala.org/ala/oif/ifissues/usapatriotact.htm