Privacy of library records is an essential part of people's First Amendment right to read. Both the U.S. Constitution and Florida's state constitution protect people's privacy. This allows people to freely explore library resources without fear of government surveillance, censorship, suppression or judgement.

What we protect

The library protects patrons' reference questions and interviews; circulation records; digital transactions and queries; and records regarding the use of library resources, services, programs, or facilities.

The library does not maintain records of library use beyond what is needed for basic statistical purposes. Library staff do not monitor or control individual patrons' use of resources.

The library does not maintain records of patrons' past checkouts. A list of current checkouts is available to you upon request and library staff when needed to keep track of circulation or recover items. You may access your library account by going to https://catalog.wildernesscoast.org/cgi-bin/koha/opac-user.pl. Log in using your library card number. Your pin is the last 4 digits of your library card number.

Public computers are reset at the conclusion of your session. Records of your use and personal information are not maintained.

It is the responsibility of patrons to protect their documents, but library staff will take steps to protect that information when necessary, such as shredding documents left on library printers and safely disposing of thumb drives.

What we collect

The library collects brief, anonymized statistical data in order to apply for funding and allocate resources. This includes circulation statistics, door counts, and program attendance.

The library does not collect records of computer or internet usage, but may briefly scan traffic on WiFi networks to ensure the protection of publicly owned devices (e.g. from viruses or malware), compliance with laws protecting minors, and effective operation of library filters. This data is not accessible to staff members, does not generate permanent records, and cannot be tied to you, even if you attempt to access a filtered website.

Security cameras are used exclusively to ensure the safety of patrons and staff in public areas. They can only be accessed based on a court order (see "legal requests" below) or exingent circumstances such as locating a missing person. They are not intended to monitor library use, program attendance, use of technology, item selection, or circulation. 

Third parties

When a third party is involved in providing a library service or resource, they may independently collect data that the library does not monitor, access or control. You should review the privacy policies of these services before using them.

Use of the library's online resources may automatically generate records and information. The library does not monitor this information, but patrons should be aware that such records may exist.

Legal requests

The library may recieve legal requests or court orders to release your library records. The library will share your information if:

• If the subpoena, warrant, or court order is valid, and that the law, including state privacy law, requires us to do so.
• The library is the complainant.
• Exigent circumstances exist (for example, a life-and-death emergency or the risk of serious physical injury).

Children's records

Parents or legal guardians may access their children's library records until age 18, unless the child is legally emancipated.

Public records

E-mails sent to the library or library staff members are public record and can be released under a records request. If you wish to keep your contact with the library confidential, please contact us via phone or postal mail.

Photography

The library is a public place. Generally, photography of staff, patrons and facilities is allowed. 

As a courtesy, staff will let patrons know verbally when they taking photos, allow patrons who do not want to be photographed to step away, and share how photos will be used.

Photography and videography cannot be used to interrupt, harass or intimidate patrons or staff; create a disruption; or interfere with library operations. This is a violation of conduct policies.