San Mateo County Libraries value and protect each library user’s right to privacy and confidentiality. This policy affirms our commitment to the ALA Code of Ethics, opens a new window and the ALA Bill of Rights, opens a new window and our compliance with state law (California State Government Code section 6267, opens a new window).
All registration and circulation records of library users shall remain confidential and will not be disclosed to any person, local, state, or federal agency unless required by law or court order, or by request or consent of the library user themselves. Confidentiality extends to database search records, computer use records, and all other personally identifiable uses of library materials, programs, spaces, or services.
Library staff may not access or share any information about any library user for any purpose except what is related to the transaction of library business. Only the Library Director (or designee) is authorized to respond to subpoenas, search warrants, or other legally enforceable court orders.
Approved by the Library JPA Governing Board on November 4, 2019.
