Libraries take protecting your privacy seriously. We believe what you read, what you research, and your use of the library’s resources is no one’s business but your own.
We obviously have to keep some records in order to operate. Mostly those records are patron contact information, current checkouts, historical checkouts linked to fines/fees, and some information to allow us to count how many people use our computers and wifi. We keep those records only for as long as they’re needed before they are deleted forever and are bound by law to keep them private while we have them (unless we receive a subpoena from law enforcement).
Additionally, our ethics and training dictate that staff do not discuss patron information with anyone outside the library. Even within the library we only discuss patron information when other staff members need to know that information.
Unfortunately, when you live in a small town (or even a big town) there may be some things you feel uncomfortable about your very ethical, non-judgemental library staff knowing you’re checking out. The good news is, we now have a self-checkout machine in the lobby! As long as you have your library card on you, you can use self-checkout to avoid any awkwardness about the materials you are taking home and to continue safety precautions for COVID-19. It’s really simple to use and we’re happy to walk you through if you need help.
Another avenue you can use to control what information the Library has about you is your checkout history. When you log into your account on our catalog, go to “My Account” then “History” to decide how long you want us to keep a record of your checkouts. Staff can do this for you too.
If you ever have questions about your privacy in the library, please ask us!