SP09Q3

Spring 2009 Question 3
Libraries are being asked by the FBI and other Federal agencies to divulge information about the reading habits and Internet use of library clients whom the FBI suspects of being "terrorists." What kind of problems does this raise for libraries? What would be a good "privacy policy" for library records? Select a type of library or information agency (e.g., academic, public, school media center, special, other) and describe the key elements of a privacy policy regarding client information from the agency’s perspective. First identify the principles that you would consider in drafting such a policy, and then identify the sources that you might draw upon in doing so. For example, the ALA Code of Ethics.

Brittany's Attempt:

I. Patriot Act and others like it violate a librarian’s ethical duty to protect the privacy of a user and his/her information use. Developing a policy helps librarians and users know their rights, develop practices that protect privacy, and help staff be prepared for challenges to a user’s privacy. II. Key Elements of a Privacy Policy (Public Library) a. Determine which records are necessary to keep and why. Don’t keep or create unnecessary records. If the record doesn’t exist, it can’t be shared. Private user records should have a definite purpose for being kept. b. Take steps to prevent unauthorized access to private records through both physical or digital means. c. Know who is and who is not authorized to view personal information. Be informed of any relevant national or state legislation and know the conditions under which the library may be legally required to surrender confidential information to law enforcement or government authorities. d. Develop a procedure for how to handle a demand for private information. III. Sources for Developing a Privacy Policy a. ALA Code of Ethics – Provides insight into Library’s ethical obligation to patrons, including privacy b. National and State Legislation – Provides information of legal obligations of the library to maintain privacy of information and often provide information about who is authorized to view private patron information and any requirements law enforcement officials must supply such as court order or subpoenas. c. ALA Guidelines for Developing a Library Privacy Policy – Provides guidance in all steps of policy creation, gives links to important legislation and offers suggestions for developing a procedure in case private records are requested.