The gap between theory and practice: A study of the prevalence and strength of patron confidentiality policies in public and academic libraries
TJ Magi - Library & Information Science Research, 2007 - Elsevier
Vermont library directors estimated they received at least 1228 requests for patron
information in the last year. In spite of these requests and heightened awareness about
threats to confidentiality posed by the USA PATRIOT Act, fewer than half of the state's public
and academic libraries have written patron confidentiality policies. The policies that do exist
were recently updated and most prohibit release of information without a binding legal
document. However, only half require an attorney's review of such documents. Libraries with …
information in the last year. In spite of these requests and heightened awareness about
threats to confidentiality posed by the USA PATRIOT Act, fewer than half of the state's public
and academic libraries have written patron confidentiality policies. The policies that do exist
were recently updated and most prohibit release of information without a binding legal
document. However, only half require an attorney's review of such documents. Libraries with …