Confidentiality of Patron Records
Approved: August 18, 2010
Revised: June 21, 2023
It is the policy of the Troy-Miami County Public Library to protect the privacy of its patrons and to keep confidential library records that contain identifying information or other confidential information concerning its patrons. This protection includes, but is not limited to, registration, circulation, computer use, and video surveillance. In compliance with the release of library record or patron information statute in Ohio Revised Code Section 149.432, the Library shall not release any library records that identify any individual patron or disclose any patron information except in situations specified in that statute.
Should a subpoena, search warrant, or other court order be issued, the Library shall immediately refer the court order to the Library’s legal counsel for review. Requests by a law enforcement officer for a release of records under Ohio Revised Code Section 149.432 (B)(2)(b) shall also be referred to the Library’s legal counsel for review so the Library may receive guidance regarding what constitutes a matter involving public safety in exigent circumstances.
Library Patron records may be accessed, viewed or modified only by authorized staff members for legitimate business purposes. Patron information is not to be accessed, discussed with or disseminated to any unauthorized third party. Negligently or intentionally accessing, or disclosing confidential patron information is in violation of Library policy.
Exceptions to Confidentiality
Under Ohio law, a patron’s library records or information shall not be made available to any agency of federal, state, or local government, or to any spouse or other individual other than the individual who is the subject of the record or information, except as follows:
- For the records or patron information pertaining to minor children when requested by parents, guardians, or custodian.
- In accordance with a subpoena, search warrant, or other court order, or to a law enforcement officer who is investigating a matter involving public safety in exigent circumstances
- Upon the request or with the consent of the individual who is the subject of the record or information.
- For library administrative purposes as defined by Ohio Revised Code 149.432.