A resolution amending the Homer Public Library’s privacy policy was passed Monday during the regular Homer City Council meeting. The amendment addresses electronic communications, like text messages, including holds notices and other notifications automatically generated by the library catalog and enshrines in writing protecting the confidentiality of patrons’ phone numbers.
According to an Oct. 22 memorandum to the council from library director Dave Berry, the Homer Public Library has offered for several years the option for patrons to receive certain communications via text message. The library catalog automatically generates email notifications, which are converted into text messages before being sent to patrons. Patrons are also offered the choice of opting into or out of electronic communications through the catalog.
Last June, AT&T notified the library that they would no longer support email-to-text services, mainly as an anti-spam measure. Berry wrote that other carriers seemed likely to follow suit. He received a recommendation from Equinox Open Library Initiative, the company that maintains the library’s catalog, to partner with a third-party company that can translate catalog outputs — like holds or overdue notices — into a form acceptable for phone carriers. HPL signed a contract with this third-party company on Sept. 26.
As part of the system upgrade process, the company requires that HPL update their library privacy policy to cover electronic communications, including offering patrons the choice to opt in or out. While patrons have had that choice, existing policy documents did not contain the necessary language on library notifications.
The policy updates include a new section on library notifications, and clarify that HPL only collects the minimum personal information necessary to provide effective service for its users. Library account data is never sold to any third-party vendors, and is only shared with “select” vendors “specifically vetted by the library” to provide optional notifications about holds, overdue items and other library business.
The policy also states that the library collects data containing no personal identification information for statistical purposes. Any personal information or mobile numbers collected from patrons opting in to electronic communications will not be shared, sold or rented to third parties.
The Library Advisory Board endorsed the changes to the HPL’s privacy policy at their Oct. 21 meeting.
Find Resolution 25-095 and supplemental materials, including the amended privacy policy language on electronic communications, at www.cityofhomer-ak.gov/citycouncil/city-council-regular-meeting-346.
The next Homer City Council meeting will take place on Monday, Nov. 24 at 6 p.m. in the Homer City Hall Cowles Council Chambers and via Zoom.
