Confidentiality
This policy concerns the privacy of information about a patron's use of information, circulation record, and other information that links a library user with their use of specific materials or services. This information is considered private and confidential to the user. Only employees of the university who have a need for this information in order to perform their duties have access to this information. Library employees may not release the names of library users who are currently making use of or who have used library resources or services in the past. Exceptions are made only upon court order, subpoena, or warrant. Exceptions are also made when deemed necessary by University officials for internal investigations as this purpose falls under the performance of duties. The UIW Libraries endorse and follow the guidelines of the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights.
The Office of General Counsel serves as the liaison with judicial and law enforcement authorities in matters regarding official records of the University. A member of the library staff may not release information except to the Office of General Counsel, except in the case of an immediately executable warrant which must first be reported to the General Counsel to verify authenticity. Requests for information of this nature made by individuals or organizations will be referred to the Office of General Counsel.