In general, no. Boston Public Library does not log computer use nor Internet access and when a patron logs out of a public desktop computer and a new user logs in, all of the local data (browsing history, files, ...) from the previous user is deleted. However, interactions with other library systems such as printing may generate usage records. Each print job, including the document name, page count, and any associated charge, is recorded in our print management system for accounting purposes. (The actual document is stored temporarily in the print management release queue until the end of the day on which it was printed, as the print management system keeps printed documents in the queue to allow for a patron to reprint a document if the print failed after it was initially released to the printer.)
Privacy FAQs
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General Questions
The library will notify you of hold and overdue material in one of three ways; by phone, by email, or by text. You may update your email address in your account. If you'd like to change the method we use to contact you, contact us.
No, all personal information is for internal use only. We may use your email address for notices and library promotions.
No, requests for public records under Massachusetts Public Records Law 950 Code of Massachusetts Regulations (CMR) 32.06 are not considered confidential.
No, as it is not part of an intellectual pursuit it is a matter of public record according to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 66, Section 10.
Yes, it is part of an intellectual pursuit which is protected by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 78, Section 7.
Representatives of any local, state, or federal government, with a valid subpoena or search warrant may obtain your records. With the USA PATRIOT Act there are additional restrictions on the library which prohibit library workers from informing you, or any other entity, that federal agents have obtained records about you.
We are sorry, but the information in his patron record is confidential.
No, the books must be picked up using the card under which they were reserved.
Yes, if you bring in some other form of identification.
Accepted identification includes: A Massachusetts driver’s license or ID card.
If you don’t have have a Massachusetts driver’s license or state ID, you can bring some other form of ID that shows your picture and signature along with official mail sent to you at a Massachusetts address.
No, but we will be happy to call, email, or mail a list of those items to the card holder.
If you are unable to come into the library, please download a copy of the designee form to authorize other people to pick up items in your name.