Printable Version of Colorado Library Law

Privacy of User Record
CRS 24-90-119 

1. Except as set forth in subsection (2) of this section, a publicly  supported library shall not disclose any record or other information  that identifies a person as having requested or obtained specific  materials or service or as otherwise having used the library.  
2. Records may be disclosed in the following instances: 
   1. When necessary for the reasonable operation of the  library;
   2. Upon written consent of the user; 
   3. Pursuant to subpoena, upon court order, or where  otherwise required by law; 
   4. To a custodial parent or legal guardian who has access to  a minor’s library card or its authorization number for the purpose of  accessing by electronic means library records of the minor.  
3. Any library official, employee, or volunteer who discloses  information in violation of this section commits a class 2 petty  offense and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine of  not more than three hundred dollars. 

Rough, non-legal summary of statute:
Privacy of user records. 

• A public library may not disclose  patron records or information about  library use unless:  
  • needed for library operations; 
  • the user consents;  
  • required through subpoena or  court order; 
  • a custodial parent/guardian has  access to a minor’s library card  or authorization number.  
•   Disclosure by a library official,  employee or volunteer commits a  class 2 petty offense, with up to  $300 fine if convicted. 

Consult with your respective city, county, or district lawyers for legal advice on, and implications of, Colorado Library Law, or call the  Colorado State Library for additional information.  

Colorado State Library – 6/28/2010
 www.ColoradoStateLibrary.org
303-866-6900