privacy: July 2007 Archives

Joan Bernstein wrote a thought-provoking article for Computers in Libraries (June 07) about patron privacy and the importance of library policies. No library expects to become involved in a privacy challenge but the reality is we must be prepared for one. Ms. Bernstein uses an experience from her library to make us think about the roles staff training, communication, record retention, and privacy policy play in handling tough situations.

Does your library have a privacy policy and procedures for handling privacy issues? Is staff trained on both? What does the law require? A good starting place for developing policies and answering questions related to WI law is the WI DPI’s FAQ on Public Library Administration and Governance that Rick mentioned above.

>> contributed by Leslie