Privacy and Confidentiality

The St. John’s University Libraries respect the right of privacy of all patrons regarding the use of the Libraries. Library records are covered by New York State Law NY CLS CPLR § 4509 (2001):

“Library records, which contain names or other personally identifying details regarding the users of public, free association, school, college and university libraries and library systems of this state, including but not limited to records related to the circulation of library materials, computer database searches, interlibrary loan transactions, reference queries, requests for photocopies of library materials, title reserve requests, or the use of audio-visual materials, films or records, shall be confidential and shall not be disclosed except that such records may be disclosed to the extent necessary for the proper operation of such library and shall be disclosed upon request or consent of the user or pursuant to subpoena, court order or where otherwise required by statute.”

The Libraries also observe all St. John’s University privacy and confidentiality policies, including:

• Human Resources Policy Manual, Policy 706: Confidentiality and related policies 121: Verification of Employment Information, 122: Personnel Records, and 710: HIPAA Compliant Procedures
• Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA)
• Information Security Program (pursuant to the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act)
• Student Handbook, Chapter 6: Policies and Procedures
• Computer and Network Use Policy: Privacy and Confidentiality
• St. John’s University Web Site Privacy Statement

Library patrons who have questions, concerns, or complaints about the Libraries’ handling of their privacy and confidentiality rights should file written comments with the University Librarian:

Theresa Maylone, University Librarian
St. Augustine Hall 322
8000 Utopia Parkway
Queens, NY 11439