To Our Library Visitors Regarding
Your Rights to Privacy about Your Library Use
Most people do not want someone else peering over their shoulders as
they read books, magazines, and newspapers, as they view films and
listen to recordings, or as they research topics on computer screens.
Patrons do not expect library staff to share information about home
addresses and phone numbers. Barberton Public Library policy has long
agreed with that, and now the Ohio state legislature agrees, too.
Library records are confidential, as provided by H.B. 389, which became
law in October 2000 as Ohio Revised Code section 149.432. The staff
does not provide information about a patron’s card registration or
library items requested or borrowed, except to that patron.
Sections of the law provide that library records and patron information
are confidential, with the exception of a few instances including the
request of a parent, guardian, or custodian; the production of a court
order; the patron’s consent to release of his information; the use for
library administrative purposes; and to document improper use of the
Internet at the library. While library staff have always followed
virtually the same guidelines, compliance with the law will require a
few changes in practice and some forms to authorize access to
information. To protect your rights to privacy, additional information
may be asked, or additional proof required.
Adults may authorize the library staff to provide circulation and patron
information to other people. This authorization would permit, for
instance, a spouse to pick up an item being held for his/her mate, or a
grandparent to ask about the items checked out to a child who visits for
the summer. Patrons should initiate this authorization if they wish
staff to implement it.
Library records for children may be provided to their parents, whether
married or separated/divorced. Access to records by stepparents, foster
parents, legal guardians, and legal custodians of minor children is
governed by specific restrictions, which staff will explain. Families
with special legal situations should discuss their concerns with library
staff.
Thank you for your patience as both staff and patrons learn the details
of this new law and pertinent guidelines!
Sincerely,
Barbara Kirbawy
Director
February 2001