Recently Asked Questions (RAQs)

Academic libraries need to make the most of their budgets for subscription services. We also want to advance librarian-aligned priorities like fair use, accessibility, authors’ rights, user privacy, and data security. Can you provide guidance on how academic and research libraries can resist contracts with non-disclosure clauses and other conditions that can work against these priorities?

In this RAQ’s section 2, “Libraries, Fax Lines, and HIPAA,” you say, there is NO CIRCUMSTANCE under which a public, academic or public library should be engaging in a HIPAA-governed communication.” You also say, “If your library is not transmitting this type of information, you can stop sweating about HIPAA, even if patrons are using your fax to send it.”

Just so that we are crystal clear: this means that if patrons need to use a fax machine to correspond with a doctor’s office, it’s okay as long as they are the ones who physically use the fax machine? If they require help, can staff tell them how to use the machine as long as we don’t handle the physical documents?

We got a series of questions from a public library system about New York State Retirement. Buckle up, this is a LOT.

I am a school librarian, and just found out my school district is using student-device monitoring software. The software uses AI to check for searches and content that could indicate consideration of self-harm. I am concerned the software will monitor access to school library content and violate student privacy. What can I do? 

We are reviewing our copyright policies and procedures at our BOCES. We are specifically reviewing student work. We understand, recognize, and respect that students hold the copyright to works they create. Our student community includes, but is not limited to, students with exceptional learning needs, behavior concerns, and our Career and Technical Education High School. Sample items of student work may include, but not limited to, writing pieces, artwork, metal working projects, carpentry projects, cake decorating, and hair design. We often use student works to decorate the hallway/classroom, highlight best practices, promotional materials, social media postings, BOCES and Component District publications, general communication home, curriculum writing, plus many other examples.

We want to ensure we are legally and ethically using the student work correctly.

• Are we allowed to use the student work unless the parent/guardian submits an opt out request? The opt out request would be included in a parent packet sent home. This would be similar to our use of student images policy.
• If a parent/guardian permission form is required, is there a distinction between displaying student work in the hall/class versus district publications versus social media?

As always, THANK YOU for all the work and dedication you do on behalf of libraries and schools! It is appreciated.