Princeton University Library
Policy on Confidentiality of Library Patron Records
As required under New Jersey law (N.J. Stat. § 18A:73-43.1 – 43.2), Princeton University Library records relating to an individual patron's use of the Library and its resources shall be treated as confidential. Accordingly, these records may be consulted and used only by library staff in the course of carrying out library operations, and will not be disclosed to others except upon the request or consent of the library patron. However, disclosure may be required pursuant to a subpoena, court order or other applicable laws, in which case such disclosure will be made only by Department Heads in consultation with the University Librarian and University Counsel and, to the extent permitted by law, only after giving advance notice to the patron.
NEW JERSEY STATUTES: TITLE 18A. EDUCATION1
18A:73-43.1. "Library," "library record" defined
For the purposes of this act:
a. "Library" means a library maintained by any State or local governmental agency, school, college, or industrial, commercial or other special group, association or agency, whether public or private.
b. "Library record" means any document or record, however maintained, the primary purpose of which is to provide for control of the circulation or other public use of library materials.
L. 1985, c. 172, s. 1, eff. May 31, 1985.
18A:73-43.2. Confidentiality; exceptions
Library records which contain the names or other personally identifying details regarding the users of libraries are confidential and shall not be disclosed except in the following circumstances:
a. The records are necessary for the proper operation of the library;
b. Disclosure is requested by the user; or
c. Disclosure is required pursuant to a subpoena issued by a court or court order.
L. 1985, c. 12, s. 2, eff. May 31, 1985.
