Privacy

Saint Mary’s Libraries are committed to protecting patron privacy in accordance with the American Library Association Code of Ethics.

Staff Training

Library staff and student employees are trained to:

  • Protect user privacy;
  • Not share information with any other person or organization outside of the library, except as required to by law.

Protected Patron Records

Article III of the Code of Ethics states “We protect each library user’s right to privacy and confidentiality with respect to information sought or received and resources consulted, borrowed, acquired or transmitted.” Confidential records include, but are not limited to:

  • Circulation records
  • Registration records
  • Reference requests
  • Reference and Internet searches
  • Interlibrary loan requests

Law Enforcement Requests for Information

In the event of a request for information about a library patron from a law enforcement agency, such as in relation to the USA PATRIOT Act, the Library Director will be notified. No action will be taken without the authorization of the Director or Associate Director.