by:
Wiegand, Shirley A.

Publisher:
Greenwood Press
Published:February 28, 1994
ISBN:0313284083
Format:Hardcover
Pages:256

Description: From Book News, Inc.
An eye-opener for librarians who assume that they can throw away records they no longer need, and that confidentiality laws protect the privacy of records. Explains which records are subject to laws regarding the retention of public records, and details the laws state by state. Also state by state, examines laws protecting confidentiality and demonstrates their weakness. Annotation copyright Book News, Inc. Portland, Or.

Product Description:
Most librarians are unaware of the laws governing the retention of library records. In addition, librarians often assume that state confidentiality laws offer more protection than they, in fact, do. The proper management of library records is an important legal issue for all librarians. This professional reference work outlines laws regarding the retention and confidentiality of library records. Part I explains why some library records should be saved and not routinely discarded. It also explains why public record retention laws apply to library records, and it then examines the variety of laws state by state. Part II discusses the need for strong confidentiality laws and traces the evolution of current laws. It then examines the current status of state confidentiality laws and demonstrates their weaknesses. While librarians often believe that "confidential" records are "privileged" and may be destroyed at will, this book clearly explains that this is not the case.