US Patriot Act Policy 

About the USA Patriot Act of 2001
HR-3162 became Public Law 107-56 in response to the events of 9/11/01.  The full title of the law is: Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001.

The Act may provide law enforcement broader boundaries when investigating information accessed and transmitted by patrons with regards to national security concerns.

Access to patron information may include but not be limited to:
     ·        Database Search Records
     ·        Circulation Records
     ·        Computer Use Records
     ·        Interlibrary Loan Records
     ·        Reference Interviews

The T-SPL Policy & Procedures Regarding Information Access and Confidentiality

Database Search Records:  These records refer to the searches of the collection a patron may conduct on the Online Public Access Terminals (OPAC).  These searches are conducted by utilizing the library’s automated circulation system, Spydus.  Once a search is conducted, the software does not retain a copy of the search.  Any records of the search will not exist.

Circulation Records:  Patron material is circulated via the Spydus system.  The circulation software tracks materials currently checked out, automatically erasing a reader’s borrowing record once a book is returned and all fines are paid.

Computer Use Records:  The library system is equipped with public computers.
Patrons use their library card to access the computers.  The library does not assign a computer to a patron and no paper record with the patron’s information printed is generated.  When the patron logs off, the software erases all history of his research and activity.

Interlibrary Loan Records:  Patrons may borrow items not owned by T-SPL from other libraries worldwide via Inter-Library Loan (ILL).  T-SPL tracks items currently being borrowed and generates a paper record with patron information.  Once the materials are returned and all appropriate fines and/or fees are paid, the paper record is destroyed.

Reference Interviews:  A reference interview occurs when a patron looking for information approaches a library staff member.  The staff member questions or interviews the patron in order to narrow down the specific information needed.  No paper record is kept during the interview that has any patron information on it.  If a patron name and number is taken by phone, and patron information is written down, as soon as the requested information is delivered, the paper record is destroyed.

 T-SPL Policy & Procedures for Complying with Law Enforcement
 T-SPL administration will comply with law enforcement when supplied with legal subpoena or warrant.