Library patrons have a legal right to privacy when it comes to their library user records and personal information. Yet this right can be threatened in common customer service interactions. From requests to view the library records of a family member to an inquiry from law enforcement, we encounter challenging situations at the customer service desk. As library workers, we must do our best to protect the legal rights of patrons and to defend this essential aspect of intellectual freedom. Come to this interactive session to learn why patron privacy is a foundational principle of library service, which laws protect patron privacy, and what you should do when faced with a situation that challenges patron privacy rights at your library.
Learning outcomes:- Review and the ethical and legal responsibilities libraries have to protect patron privacy.
- Review and the ethical and legal responsibilities libraries have to protect patron privacy.
- Identify challenging customer service situations where it is difficult to protect patron privacy.
- Practice addressing common scenarios where patron privacy is at risk of being compromised.
