2020 LibTech Conference

Protecting user privacy has long been a stated professional value, but how much do library principles and practices really line up? Do librarians within the same institution agree upon what we are doing--and should be doing--to protect user privacy? Our interactive session will share the work of the recently formed Privacy Task Force at the University of Minnesota Libraries and also facilitate conversation around this complex topic. The Privacy Task Force is charged with inventorying how user data is collected, stored, and protected; engaging staff in conversation about user privacy; and making recommendations about library policies and practices. We will share why this group was formed, what we have learned thus far, what we still hope to do, and what some of our challenges have been along the way. We will share themes that surfaced as we inventoried current practices that we believe attendees will find both relatable and thought-provoking. During our session, participants will have the opportunity to consider and discuss illustrative user data privacy scenarios. Our session will be contextualized with insights and perspectives emanating from the broader national conversation currently happening around this issue. By sharing how one large university library is approaching this issue and engaging participants in real-life scenarios, we hope to avoid easy answers and provide space for reflection and lively discussion.