Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

Welcome to Silent Library. We are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring the security of your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our library, use our services, or interact with our website.

2. Information We Collect

2.1 Personal Information

We may collect the following types of personal information:

• Contact Information: Name, address, phone number, and email address
• Identification: Library card number, government-issued ID for verification
• Borrowing Records: Books borrowed, due dates, and return status
• Event Participation: Registration for library events and programs
• Website Usage: IP address, browser information, and pages visited

2.2 Automatically Collected Information

When you visit our website, we may automatically collect certain information about your device and usage patterns, including:

• Log files and usage data
• Cookies and similar tracking technologies
• Device information and browser type
• Pages visited and time spent on our website

3. How We Use Your Information

We use the information we collect for the following purposes:

• Library Services: To provide library services, including book lending and returns
• Account Management: To create and maintain your library account
• Communication: To send notifications about due dates, holds, and library news
• Event Management: To register you for events and send related communications
• Website Improvement: To analyze usage patterns and improve our online services
• Legal Compliance: To comply with applicable laws and regulations

4. Information Sharing and Disclosure

4.1 When We Share Information

We may share your personal information in the following circumstances:

• With Your Consent: When you explicitly authorize us to share your information
• Legal Requirements: When required by law, court order, or legal process
• Service Providers: With trusted third-party vendors who assist in providing our services
• Emergency Situations: To protect the safety and security of individuals or property

4.2 What We Don't Share

We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information to third parties for commercial purposes. We respect your privacy and the confidentiality of your reading habits.

5. Data Security

We implement appropriate technical and organizational security measures to protect your personal information against unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. These measures include:

• Encryption of sensitive data
• Secure servers and databases
• Regular security assessments
• Access controls and user authentication
• Staff training on data protection

6. Data Retention

We retain your personal information only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this Privacy Policy, unless a longer retention period is required or permitted by law. Borrowing records are typically retained according to library policies and legal requirements.

7. Your Rights and Choices

7.1 Access and Correction

You have the right to:

• Access your personal information we hold
• Request correction of inaccurate information
• Update your contact preferences
• Request deletion of your information (subject to legal requirements)

7.2 Communication Preferences

You can opt out of receiving promotional communications from us by:

• Clicking the unsubscribe link in emails
• Contacting us directly
• Updating your preferences in your library account

8. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

Our website uses cookies and similar technologies to enhance your browsing experience. These technologies help us:

• Remember your preferences
• Analyze website usage
• Provide personalized content
• Improve our services

You can control cookie settings through your browser preferences, though this may affect website functionality.

9. Children's Privacy

We are committed to protecting the privacy of children. For library users under 18 years of age:

• Parental consent may be required for certain services
• We limit the collection of personal information from minors
• Parents can review and request deletion of their child's information
• We comply with applicable children's privacy laws

10. Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites or services. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these external sites. We encourage you to review the privacy policies of any third-party sites you visit.

11. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. When we make changes, we will:

• Post the updated policy on our website
• Update the "Last Updated" date
• Notify you of significant changes through email or website notices

12. Contact Information

If you have questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy or our privacy practices, please contact us: