Library users of all ages have right to privacy

Copyright © 2005 Blethen Maine Newspapers Inc.

E-mail this story to a friend

A visit to a public library should be like a trip to Las Vegas -- what happens there should stay there.

Anyone who uses libraries -- no matter the patron's age -- has a right to privacy when it comes to what books he or she borrows.

A Maine lawmaker is trying to deny such privacy to readers who are 17 or younger.

Rep. Randy E. Hotham, R-Dixfield, has sponsored a bill that would require public libraries to tell parents what books their children have checked out.

Hotham's bill seeks to open children's records at every public library in Maine, including the Maine State Library, the Legislature's law library and all libraries operated by the University of Maine System and the Maine Maritime Academy.

The records would have to be provided whenever parents request them in writing, according to the bill.

Along with violating children's privacy unnecessarily, the untenable law would:

n Discourage young people from using libraries.

n Add needlessly to the heavy workload and responsibility already placed on library staffs.

n Force library employees to make decisions about who should have access to records. This could become an issue if there are questions about the person requesting the information or if there are guardianship issues.

n Add to libraries' expenses, perhaps significantly if they would have to add equipment or technology to comply with the bill.

Lawmakers should see the obvious problems in Hotham's bill and reject it.

Maine already has good laws that protect the confidentiality of all records at public and university libraries.

The law stipulates the records may be released only if a patron agrees or under court order.

Several librarians descended on the Statehouse last week to testify against Hotham's bill.

Some of their arguments before the Education and Cultural Affairs Committee were expected: The bill would violate privacy, create work, add to costs and address no real -- or at least widespread -- problem.

Some librarians raised other issues that many of us might not have considered.

One testified that Hotham's bill would cause a breach of ethics for librarians, whom patrons of all ages should be able to trust.

The same librarian said libraries can play a roll in children's development and in their learning to make appropriate decisions.

Young people should be able to look at and check out books and publications on most topics, including national and world events, history, social issues, crime, health and sexuality.

Other children might have personal reasons for wanting to read certain books or consult other materials. This could include information on homosexuality, self-esteem, domestic violence, child abuse, incest or bullying.

Libraries are wonderful places where anyone can go to get a good book, explore issues or dig out answers to difficult questions.

No matter their age, patrons should be able to do all of this privately -- not fearful that parents and library employees are looking over their shoulders.

Most of us want children reading and using libraries more. Hotham's bill sends the opposite message.

The Education and Cultural Affairs Committee is scheduled to vote on the bill today, after which its recommendation goes to the full Legislature.

That recommendation should be a quick end to a bad idea.