Confidentiality of Library Records

Service Policy: Confidentiality of Library Records

All records, formal and informal, in the Fargo Public Library that relate to borrowers’ registrations, materials they check out or consult, or questions users ask are considered confidential.

Such records will not be released to individuals, the public, the media, or any government agency except pursuant to such process, order, or subpoenas as may be authorized under the authority of and pursuant to federal, state, or local law relating to civil, criminal, or administrative discovery procedures. Requests for patron records will be handled in accordance with the library’s procedure for dealing with law enforcement inquiries.

Individuals will need to provide letters of guardianship in order to access the library records of vulnerable adults under their care. Organizations providing assistance to vulnerable adults regarding library accounts will need to confirm with library administration their guardianship.

Individuals will need to provide proof of durable power of attorney in order to access the library records of the individual(s) of which they are the designated agent.

The exception is parents or legal guardians whose children have overdue materials. Upon the request of the parent or legal guardian, the titles and due dates of overdue materials only will be provided in order that the materials will be returned. Identification will be requested from the parent or guardian.

Approved by the Board of Directors: 12-16-1997
Revised 02-22-2005
Revised 06-18-2013
Revised 07-16-2013
Reviewed 01-16-2018
Revised 05-18-2021
Revised 02-27-2024