MCL collects the minimum amount of information about our customers required to provide effective and efficient library services.
Types of Customer Data Collected
Library Records - As established by Washington State law, library records are private and are not subject to public disclosure. Library records include, but are not limited to, account registration records, circulation records, reference requests, search and download records, and computer use records.
Library records are retained until no longer needed to provide library services to a customer.
See also: Section 210 Circulation, No. 42 Privacy of Registration and Circulation Records
Usage Data - The following types of usage data are collected:
Library card numbers, along with the date, time, and locations of login, are collected to manage access to library computers.
For Wi-Fi connections, hardware identifiers, date, and time are collected and retained to evaluate usage and quality of wireless services MCL provides.
MCL websites use cookies, web beacons, or unique device identifiers to monitor usage and improve library services. The website also logs browser and operating system information, as well as IP address.
MCL does not monitor Internet services or sites accessed on any device connected to any network provided by MCL.
Usage data is anonymized to remove references to identifiable individuals or devices after one year. Anonymized and aggregated statistics that show overall usage trends are kept indefinitely.
Location Data - For app-based library services on mobile devices, MCL asks for consent on first use to access precise location data. After acknowledging consent, MCL uses location data to provide services in the app. No location data is recorded or retained by MCL.
Contact Information - MCL collects mailing addresses, email addresses, and phone numbers for notification and marketing purposes. Customers can opt to receive notifications about borrowed and requested materials by phone, email, or text message. Customers can change their notification preferences by contacting their local branch or accessing their library account online.
Email addresses may be used by MCL to inform customers about events and services. Customers can unsubscribe from promotional email by replying to the promotional message or by online form at any time.
All text messages sent by MCL require opt-in. Message frequency varies depending on the customer’s selected options. Message and data rates may apply. Recipients can always reply HELP for assistance with messages or STOP to cancel further messages.
Use of data
Customer data is available only to the individual customer upon request. MCL does not share customer data for commercial purposes. Customer data may be disclosed to third parties in the following circumstances:
With the customer’s consent;
To prevent the use of library facilities or equipment for illegal activities;
Upon a parent or guardian’s request, they may access a library record for their minor children up to 18 unless the minor has previously provided proof of emancipation; or
When required by legal process, court order, or subpoena.
MCL uses customer data internally for marketing and research purposes to inform and enhance library services. MCL contracts with third-party vendors to provide some library services and shares the minimum amount of information required to provide the contracted service.
(03/17/2026; Adopted 08/21/2012)