The move to self-service holds (also known as open-shelf holds) has enabled many libraries to continue user hold services despite ongoing staff cuts and budget reductions. But many libraries have implemented self-service hold systems that reveal personally identifiable information — including users’ full names — that link the user to the specific book or materials on hold, thereby compromising the library user’s privacy and confidentiality. Such practices violate the ALA Code of Ethics and may, in some states, violate library confidentiality statutes. In response to this situation, the ALA Council passed a resolution addressing self-service hold practices that encourages both libraries and vendors to adopt self-service hold systems that preserve users’ confidentiality.

Join Deborah Caldwell-Stone, OIF Deputy Director, for a free webinar explaining the legal and ethical standards that support the move to privacy-protective hold systems. This small, interactive live event will also highlight options for self-service hold systems that both protect user privacy and save the library money. We encourage you to bring your questions and ideas for small group discussion.

Registration is limited to 25 attendees and closes at 4 p.m. (Central) today. The webinar will be recorded and an archived webcast will be available at a later date.

Title: “Self-Service Holds: Efficiency doesn’t need to compromise reader privacy”

Date: Tuesday, May 15, 2012, 2:00 p.m. Central (3:00 Eastern, 1:00 Mountain, 12:00 Pacific).

Cost: Free.  To register, please email your name, contact information, and the webinar title to oif@ala.org.

Questions? Call Angela Maycock at 312-280-4221 or email amaycock@ala.org.