CONFIDENTIALITY OF LIBRARY RECORDS

The Alexandria Library patron borrowing records are confidential and protected from disclosure by the Virginia Freedom of Information Act. Virginia Code - Section 2.2-3705 (A.10)" records .. excluded from provisions of this chapter (records open to inspection ) ... library records which can be used to identify both (i) any library patron who has borrowed material from a library and (ii) the material such a patron borrowed." The computer maintains a record of materials currently checked out. Records of patrons may not be seen or disclosed to anyone other than the person signing the card. 

Exception: A parent or guardian of a child up to the age of sixteen may see the child's record.

Warning: Under Section 215 of the federal “USA Patriot” Act (Public Law 107-56), records of the books and other materials you borrow may be obtained by federal agents. That federal law prohibits librarians from informing you if records about you have been requested or obtained by federal agents.

Questions about this policy should be directed to: Attorney General, U.S. Department of Justice, Washington, DC 20530

The above warning posted as directed by Alexandria City Council Resolution No. 2088 (11/11/03)
  
Patron Electronic Disclosure Policy

Under the USA Patriot Act, the Alexandria Library's public computer workstations and network system are for use by authorized Alexandria Library patrons who are subject to the rules of the INTERNET POLICY AND RULES (IPR) and the laws of government agencies. Alexandria Library does not routinely inspect, monitor or disclose content but may do so in the course of "plain sight" resource inspection, system management and maintenance. Patrons are advised that any evidence of criminal activity may be disclosed to or seized by law enforcement and government agencies. Individuals using the computer workstations and network contrary to our IPR are subject to the penalties stated in the IPR and the laws of government agencies.

Revised 06/06