Privacy Policy
Your library account information is confidential. The Wayland Free Public Library supports every patron’s right to have his or her library records remain confidential as specified by the M.G.L. Chapter 78, section 7 to the extent that it is consistent with federal law. This policy is in accordance with the American Library Association’s Code of Ethics, and the ALA’s Library Bill of Rights. The library retains only as much information as required to provide services unless a patron specifically requests otherwise. Personal information on patrons is discarded as soon as it is no longer needed. The library keeps no permanent record of materials borrowed, Internet sites visited, electronic databases used, questions asked, or searches performed by patrons. As free and democratic institutions, libraries must protect the individual’s right to have his or her reading patterns or reference questions remain a private matter.
The practical ramifications of such a policy often mean that a staff member responding to an inquiry concerning a family member’s or another person’s reserves or circulation records is prohibited from sharing those records.
In the event that a search warrant is produced, the Director will notify the Board of Trustees and consult with the Town Counsel to determine if such process, order, or subpoena is in proper form and if there is a showing of good cause for its issuance. No permission shall be granted by the Wayland Free Public Library to law enforcement officials to conduct a search absent a warrant.
Approved by the Board of Library Trustees 12/12/2021
—————————————————————————————————————-
How does this affect your library visit? Please read on for frequently-asked questions.