Is your library considering a move to self-service holds (also known as open-shelf holds)? Such systems have enabled many libraries to successfully continue user hold services despite staff cuts and budget reductions. But some of these systems may compromise privacy and confidentiality by linking personally identifiable information with the specific materials on hold. Such practices may violate the ALA Code of Ethics and may, in some states, violate library confidentiality statutes.

Join ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom for a free, live webinar on the legal and ethical standards that support the move to privacy-protective hold systems. OIF Deputy Director Deborah Caldwell-Stone will discuss the issues and consider various self-service hold systems that both protect user privacy and save the library money. Bring your questions and discuss your own experiences in an interactive session with colleagues across the country!

Date: Tuesday, March 19, 2013 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Central time; will be recorded and available in archive

Cost: Free. To register, visit http://ala.adobeconnect.com/e4bngl6pl35/event/event_info.html.

Other upcoming OIF webinars include “Choose Privacy Week Programming @ Your Library” (April 9) and “Defend the Freedom to Read: Reporting Challenges” (April 23).  For more information on these and other OIF online learning offerings, please visit www.ala.org/offices/oif/oifprograms/webinars. Contact Angela Maycock at amaycock@ala.org with any questions.