Library Patron Privacy at SPL

Libraries have always been an integral source for information seeking behavior. That key role in information diffusion now includes a vast array of resources beyond the traditional print medium. As a sign of the times most libraries in the United States now have some form of Internet access for their patrons. This use of computers raises unique questions about the individual privacy and records of patrons relative to their Internet activities. These records or lack thereof have been heightened with the passage of legislation such as the US Patriot Act and Child Internet Protection Act.

I had the pleasure of visiting Washington state for a few weeks in August 2004. As part of the visit one morning was spent exploring the downtown (main) branch of the Seattle library. It is a vast building of controversial design that houses a large collection of diverse materials. The library also has many Internet terminals for it users and maintains the technological edge one sees in many parts of the west coast where the IT industry was born and has now matured.

Seattle should be a model for other libraries in that is has defined and made easily available policies relating to "customer" use, confidentiality and privacy. These privacy policies may be found on the Seattle public library web site and are linked and discussed below.

The Seattle Public Library Web Site: Privacy Notice here.

Analysis here.

Confidentiality of Borrower Information here.

Analysis here.

Confidentiality and the PATRIOT Act here

Analysis here.

Personal experience with online access at the Seattle library here

Conclusion here