View and Reflect

Based on the webinar transcript, here are 10 discussion questions that can help guide a thoughtful conversation around patron privacy and data management in Montana’s public libraries:

Discussion Questions

1. What types of data does your library currently collect from patrons, and how do you determine what is necessary versus excessive?

   • Consider how the principle of data minimization is applied in your library.

2. How does your library ensure compliance with the Montana Library Records Confidentiality Act?

   • What procedures are in place for handling requests from law enforcement or third parties?

3. What are some practical steps your library has taken to protect personally identifiable information (PII)?

   • Think about both physical and digital safeguards.

4. How does your library manage access to patron data among staff?

   • Are there role-based permissions or regular password updates in place?

5. What challenges have you encountered when balancing patron privacy with operational needs (e.g., hold pickups, overdue notices)?

   • How have you addressed these challenges?

6. How do you handle situations where a parent or guardian requests access to a minor’s borrowing history?

   • What policies or forms are in place to manage this?

7. What strategies does your library use to anonymize data for reporting or grant applications?

   • How do you ensure that aggregated data cannot be traced back to individuals?

8. How do you train staff on privacy and confidentiality best practices?

   • Is this training ongoing, and how is it reinforced?

9. What procedures are in place for data retention and deletion in your library?

   • How do you decide when and how to securely dispose of patron data?

10. Have you reviewed your library’s use of third-party vendors and their data practices?

    • What steps do you take to ensure patron data is protected when using external services?

Discussion questions generated by Microsoft Copilot from webinar transcript.