According to the American Library Association (ALA), “The right to privacy – the right to read, consider, and develop ideas and beliefs free from observation or unwanted surveillance by the government or others – is the bedrock foundation for intellectual freedom. Privacy is essential to free inquiry in the library because it enables library users to select, access, and consider information and ideas without fear of embarrassment, judgment, punishment, or ostracism.”
Additionally, the , article 7 states:
All people, regardless of origin, age, background, or views, possess a right to privacy and confidentiality in their library use. Libraries should advocate for, educate about, and protect people’s privacy, safeguarding all library use data, including personally identifiable information.
All people, regardless of origin, age, background, or views, possess a right to privacy and confidentiality in their library use.
Libraries should advocate for, educate about, and protect people’s privacy, safeguarding all library use data, including personally identifiable information.
One way to see the value placed on privacy at PCC Libraries is that the library does not keep a record of items you’ve checked out once they’ve been returned. This is in an effort to protect your privacy. Learn more about privacy and confidentiality of library records at the PCC Library.
Popular Science, September 1, 2022.
International Association of Privacy Professionals (April 21, 2025)
Electronic Frontier Foundation, April 18, 2024
The Stanford Institute for Human-Centered AI (HAI), March 18, 2024
Learn more about your right to privacy.
The Electronic Frontier Foundation defends civil liberties in the digital world. Founded in 1990, EFF champions user privacy, free expression, and innovation through impact litigation, policy analysis, grassroots activism, and technology development. Check out their .
Practical tips to keep you safer online.
Information from the Federal Trade Commission about the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). As a parent, you have control over the personal information companies collect online from your kids under 13. This site includes links to other information about protecting kids online.
A guide to protecting yourself from electronic surveillance for people all over the world from beginner to advanced.
From the Pew Research Center. The role of technology companies, AI and regulation – plus personal experiences with data breaches, passwords, cybersecurity and privacy policies.
American Library Association. “Library Bill of Rights.” American Library Association, 29 Jan. 2019, www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/librarybill. Accessed 23 Apr. 2024.
—. “Privacy.” American Library Association, Oct. 2021, www.ala.org/advocacy/node/466/. Accessed 23 Apr. 2024.