It is a record that is maintained within the patron’s personal library account and cannot be viewed by library staff. Computer Use Records: Patrons may use any of the computers in either open lab in the library. When the patron shuts off a computer, the software erases all history of their research and activity. Interlibrary Loan Records: Patrons may borrow items not owned by the LaChance Library from other libraries through system-wide holds or Interlibrary Loan (ILL). Once the materials are returned and all appropriate fines and/or fees are paid, the record is destroyed. Reference Interviews: A reference interview occurs when a patron looking for information approaches a library staff member and the staff questions or interviews the patron in order to narrow down the specific information needed. No print record of the interview is retained. If a patron name and number is taken by phone, and patron information is recorded, as soon as the requested information is delivered, the paper record is destroyed. Requests for information via email shall be deleted once the transaction is completed.
Information about the USA PATRIOT Act of 2001 The USA PATRIOT Act (Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act) expands federal law enforcement’s ability to find out about telephone and electronic communications and to obtain “tangible things,” such as documents and records. Library circulation records, interlibrary loan requests, use of public computers for the Internet, email, or chat are records that could be subpoenaed. LaChance Library staff has a prescribed response to requests for patron information.
Overdue Materials Policy Approximately two weeks after an item is overdue, an overdue email is sent. If the item is still not returned, a final letter, which is a bill to replace the book, will be mailed two weeks after the initial overdue notice is sent. Overdue fines are 5¢ per day per item for most items, and reserve item fines may be 25¢ per hour. Patrons with overdue items may not check out additional items. Once an overdue reaches the billing stage, a block is placed on the student’s record in the records office. Please note that students with blocked records will not be allowed to register for courses at MWCC; additionally grades, transcripts, and diplomas will be withheld and no information from the student’s academic folder will be available to potential employers or other institutions of higher education. Once the library materials are returned, or the replacement cost is paid, the student’s record will be unblocked.
43 MWCC 2011-2012 College Catalog & Student Handbook