Privacy Policy

Washington County Public Library is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of library users and patron records. The library shall ensure an individual’s right to privacy concerning materials which are borrowed, as set forth in Florida Statutes 257.261 (Refer to Appendix F).

Custodian

The legal custodian of library records is the director, who is responsible for responding to any request for library records or information about a library patron. The director may designate one or more library employees to serve as person(s) responsible for responding to any request for library records or information about a library user when the director is unavailable.

Confidentiality of Library Records

State law prohibits the disclosure of information about circulation records of the library and other records identifying the names of users and material used by them and shall be confidential, regardless of the inquiry. The prohibition includes patrons’ addresses, phone numbers and anything else about them, except in accordance with a proper judicial order. A person may not make known in any manner any information contained in records made confidential and exempt with very few exceptions as defined in Florida Statute 257.261, 3 A & B 1-5 (Refer to Appendix F).

Terms used in this policy include:

Privacy is the right to seek information through library resources without having the subject of interest known or examined by others
Confidentiality exists when the library possesses personally identifiable information about patrons and keeps that information private on their behalf
Personally Identifiable Information is information like name, library card number, email or mailing address and telephone number relating to patrons’ accounts provided to the library

In general, patrons have the right to know when any library transaction creates a record of personally identifiable information and how such information is used and its confidentiality protected. Personal information and mobile numbers collected through opt-in will not be shared, sold, or rented with third parties for marketing purposes.

Relevant Laws

Although the library makes every effort to protect patrons’ privacy through compliance with state law and through local practice, under the federal USA PATRIOT ACT records of library activities (including materials borrowed and computer workstation usage) may be obtained by federal agents. That federal law prohibits library staff from informing patrons if federal agents have obtained their records.

MessageBee Terms and Conditions

1. Washington County Public Library occasionally contacts registered patrons via SMS or Text Messaging. Personal information will not be shared with third parties for marketing purposes.
2. The types of messages the library may send includes but is not limited to customer care/account notifications.
3. Message frequency may vary.
4. Message and data rates may apply.
5. For support, text HELP for help, email at requests@wcplfl.com, or call your local library branch.
6. To opt-out, text STOP to cancel, log in to your account to change notice preference, or speak with a staff member.
7. Failure to receive a library account notice does not waive patron responsibility for the timely return of library materials.