I want to offer a quick point of clarification / interest. I share this information with you as the Connecticut SLMS Law4Librarian Trainer (through the ALA's Office of Intellectual Freedom). This is not legal advice but simply information. 

In the state of Connecticut, The Connecticut State Statute Chapter 190, Sec. 11-25. Reports by libraries. Confidentiality of records clearly states that patron confidentiality of records does NOT apply to school libraries. As schools we are bound by FERPA, and so students' circulation history falls under their educational record. Therefore, if a parent wants to see a students' checkout history, that information must be shared. BUT there is no law that says their circulation history must be stored. In Follett, for example, you can uncheck that option under access levels. This is one way to protect student privacy. It's important to keep that in mind. If you don't want a student's circulation history to be part of their record, then make sure not to store it. The confidentiality afforded in a public library is not the same in a public school library. I'd also suggest checking the school policies because some school policies do state that a student's library records are private. In this case, it would not be part of the record even if you keep the circ history. 

The ALA has a helpful section on School Libraries and Privacy. ALA recognizes that unique role that school librarians have with regard to patrons' rights and parents' rights. It might be worth sharing with your principal. In addition, there have been court cases (Counts v. Cedarville) about requiring permission slips to check out books and/or placing certain materials behind the circ desk, where the courts ruled in favor of the students and their right to privacy. Courts have repeatedly affirmed that students do not lose their First Amendment right when they walk into school. In Counts the court said that any barrier or burden placed on the student to check out books is seen as a burden, even if it's a small one, and therefore it's an infringement to access / unconstitutional. What your principal is asking for, may indeed be a slippery slope and open up the district to a lawsuit if you have a savvy student and/or students' parent who feels that parental notification hinders the students' access to voluntary information. If having parents notified right away creates a stigmatizing effect on the student, then it can be seen as an infringement. The argument that a parent can ask their child what they're reading and/or ask their child to log in and show them what they're reading is the best course of action. That leaves the school out of the decision. 

As a friendly reminder, I am available to all CT SLMS as a resource to answer questions, provide training, support you in times of challenges, etc. Even if I don't have the answer, I have direct access to ALA's OIF, and the attorneys who trained us to support all of you.

Thank you, 
Tess McCool 
Suffield High School Library   

On Fri, Dec 6, 2024 at 1:56 PM <casl-l-request@mylist.net> wrote:
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   1. Re: CASL-L Digest, Vol 10, Issue 418 (Allison Gale)
   2. Registration is OPEN! Spring 2025 - Library Technology
      Certificate Program at CT State Three Rivers
      (Vasselle, Laura (Three-Rivers))



---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Allison Gale <agale@er9.org>
To: casl-l@mylist.net
Cc: 
Bcc: 
Date: Fri, 6 Dec 2024 11:22:25 -0500
Subject: Re: [CASL-L] CASL-L Digest, Vol 10, Issue 418
Thank you all for your responses. I sent my principal the following resources regarding ALA and minors/privacy.
I did call Follett just to see if this is even an option and they said it wasn't. 
My response was "Excellent, that's the answer I was hoping for!" 🤪

Students & Minors | ALA

Library Privacy Checklist for Students in K-12 Schools | ALA

Library Privacy Guidelines for Students in K-12 Schools | ALA



On Fri, Dec 6, 2024 at 11:14 AM <casl-l-request@mylist.net> wrote:
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Today's Topics:

   1. Re: Book Checkout Parent Alert (Cathy Andronik)
   2. Re: Book Checkout Parent Alert (Lauren Yansick)
   3. Re: [EXTERNAL]  Book Checkout Parent Alert (Rocca, Jen)
   4. Re: [EXTERNAL] Re:  Book Checkout Parent Alert (Pia Ledina)
   5. Re: [EXTERNAL] Re: Book Checkout Parent Alert (Catherine Ryan)



---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Cathy Andronik <cathyandronik@yahoo.com>
To: "casl-l@mylist.net" <casl-l@mylist.net>, Allison Gale <agale@er9.org>
Cc: 
Bcc: 
Date: Fri, 6 Dec 2024 13:33:19 +0000 (UTC)
Subject: Re: [CASL-L] Book Checkout Parent Alert
Isn't this an ALA privacy issue?

Cathy Andronik
Brien McMahon HS (retired)

On Friday 6 December 2024 at 08:27:51 am GMT-5, Allison Gale via CASL-L <casl-l@mylist.net> wrote:


I realize this is a slippery slope, but my principal is wondering if parents can be automatically notified when a student checks out a book- in an effort for transparency- so they know what their student is reading.
Does anyone have this or something similar set up/ have experience with this?
My suggestion was to encourage parents to have a conversation with their students and they can ask to see their checkout history when the student is logged in.


--
Mrs. Allison Gale
Library Media Specialist
Helen Keller Middle School Media Center
Instagram: @hkmsmediacenter


Note:
This communication is confidential and proprietary to Easton/Redding/Region 9 and its affiliates and is intended solely for the named addressee(s). If you are not the intended recipient, you should not copy, disclose or take any action in reliance on this communication. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender by reply e-mail and delete the message and any attached documents.
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---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Lauren Yansick <yansickl@shermanschool.com>
To: Cathy Andronik <cathyandronik@yahoo.com>
Cc: "casl-l@mylist.net" <casl-l@mylist.net>, Allison Gale <agale@er9.org>
Bcc: 
Date: Fri, 6 Dec 2024 08:43:37 -0500
Subject: Re: [CASL-L] Book Checkout Parent Alert
I too agree that this would be considered a breach of the ALA's policy on intellectual freedom. It's definitely slippery when it comes to minors and their parents wanting to know what their child is reading. I would stand your ground with your principal and continue to encourage parents to have an open conversation with their child about what books they are reading. 


--
Lauren Yansick
Library Media Specialist
The Sherman School
"Google can bring you back 100,000 answers. A librarian can bring you back the right one." - Neil Gaiman



On Fri, Dec 6, 2024 at 8:33 AM Cathy Andronik via CASL-L <casl-l@mylist.net> wrote:
Isn't this an ALA privacy issue?

Cathy Andronik
Brien McMahon HS (retired)

On Friday 6 December 2024 at 08:27:51 am GMT-5, Allison Gale via CASL-L <casl-l@mylist.net> wrote:


I realize this is a slippery slope, but my principal is wondering if parents can be automatically notified when a student checks out a book- in an effort for transparency- so they know what their student is reading.
Does anyone have this or something similar set up/ have experience with this?
My suggestion was to encourage parents to have a conversation with their students and they can ask to see their checkout history when the student is logged in.


--
Mrs. Allison Gale
Library Media Specialist
Helen Keller Middle School Media Center
Instagram: @hkmsmediacenter


Note:
This communication is confidential and proprietary to Easton/Redding/Region 9 and its affiliates and is intended solely for the named addressee(s). If you are not the intended recipient, you should not copy, disclose or take any action in reliance on this communication. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender by reply e-mail and delete the message and any attached documents.
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---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: "Rocca, Jen" <Roccaj@brookfieldps.org>
To: Allison Gale <agale@er9.org>
Cc: casl-l@mylist.net
Bcc: 
Date: Fri, 6 Dec 2024 09:01:15 -0500
Subject: Re: [CASL-L] [EXTERNAL]  Book Checkout Parent Alert
I agree that this is a privacy violation. If you are using Follett then the parent can sit down with the student and have the student log in to Follett and see what their kid has checked out and discuss it with them. 

We use "log in with Google" so that makes this task very easy. I'd opt for that option over any kind of regular notification.

On Fri, Dec 6, 2024 at 8:28 AM Allison Gale via CASL-L <casl-l@mylist.net> wrote:
I realize this is a slippery slope, but my principal is wondering if parents can be automatically notified when a student checks out a book- in an effort for transparency- so they know what their student is reading.
Does anyone have this or something similar set up/ have experience with this?
My suggestion was to encourage parents to have a conversation with their students and they can ask to see their checkout history when the student is logged in.


--
Mrs. Allison Gale
Library Media Specialist
Helen Keller Middle School Media Center
Instagram: @hkmsmediacenter


Note:
This communication is confidential and proprietary to Easton/Redding/Region 9 and its affiliates and is intended solely for the named addressee(s). If you are not the intended recipient, you should not copy, disclose or take any action in reliance on this communication. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender by reply e-mail and delete the message and any attached documents._______________________________________________
CASL-L mailing list
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https://mylist.net/listinfo/casl-l


--

Jennifer Rocca (she/her)
BHS Teacher Librarian
203-775-7725 x-4015

"We are a learning community committed to fostering intellect, respect, and integrity."



---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Pia Ledina <pia_ledina@greenwich.k12.ct.us>
To: Lauren Yansick <yansickl@shermanschool.com>
Cc: Cathy Andronik <cathyandronik@yahoo.com>, "casl-l@mylist.net" <casl-l@mylist.net>, Allison Gale <agale@er9.org>
Bcc: 
Date: Fri, 6 Dec 2024 10:31:21 -0500
Subject: Re: [CASL-L] [EXTERNAL] Re:  Book Checkout Parent Alert
I agree with Cathy and Lauren...  a child's reading history cannot be released to anyone without that child's express permission... please don't let your principal preemptively violate the rights of a reader!  I'm happy to help you find backup if you need it, and would strongly recommend that the parents simply have conversations with their kiddo.

https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/librarybill
https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/librarybill/interpretations
 






On Fri, Dec 6, 2024 at 8:43 AM Lauren Yansick <yansickl@shermanschool.com> wrote:
I too agree that this would be considered a breach of the ALA's policy on intellectual freedom. It's definitely slippery when it comes to minors and their parents wanting to know what their child is reading. I would stand your ground with your principal and continue to encourage parents to have an open conversation with their child about what books they are reading. 


--
Lauren Yansick
Library Media Specialist
The Sherman School
"Google can bring you back 100,000 answers. A librarian can bring you back the right one." - Neil Gaiman



On Fri, Dec 6, 2024 at 8:33 AM Cathy Andronik via CASL-L <casl-l@mylist.net> wrote:
Isn't this an ALA privacy issue?

Cathy Andronik
Brien McMahon HS (retired)

On Friday 6 December 2024 at 08:27:51 am GMT-5, Allison Gale via CASL-L <casl-l@mylist.net> wrote:


I realize this is a slippery slope, but my principal is wondering if parents can be automatically notified when a student checks out a book- in an effort for transparency- so they know what their student is reading.
Does anyone have this or something similar set up/ have experience with this?
My suggestion was to encourage parents to have a conversation with their students and they can ask to see their checkout history when the student is logged in.


--
Mrs. Allison Gale
Library Media Specialist
Helen Keller Middle School Media Center
Instagram: @hkmsmediacenter


Note:
This communication is confidential and proprietary to Easton/Redding/Region 9 and its affiliates and is intended solely for the named addressee(s). If you are not the intended recipient, you should not copy, disclose or take any action in reliance on this communication. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender by reply e-mail and delete the message and any attached documents.
_______________________________________________
CASL-L mailing list
CASL-L@mylist.net
https://mylist.net/listinfo/casl-l
_______________________________________________
CASL-L mailing list
CASL-L@mylist.net
https://mylist.net/listinfo/casl-l
_______________________________________________
CASL-L mailing list
CASL-L@mylist.net
https://mylist.net/listinfo/casl-l



---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Catherine Ryan <cryan@suffield.org>
To: Pia Ledina <pia_ledina@greenwich.k12.ct.us>
Cc: Lauren Yansick <yansickl@shermanschool.com>, Cathy Andronik <cathyandronik@yahoo.com>, "casl-l@mylist.net" <casl-l@mylist.net>, Allison Gale <agale@er9.org>
Bcc: 
Date: Fri, 6 Dec 2024 11:13:35 -0500
Subject: Re: [CASL-L] [EXTERNAL] Re: Book Checkout Parent Alert
Agree... we also encourage/ask that parents speak with their child.

On Fri, Dec 6, 2024 at 10:32 AM Pia Ledina via CASL-L <casl-l@mylist.net> wrote:
I agree with Cathy and Lauren...  a child's reading history cannot be released to anyone without that child's express permission... please don't let your principal preemptively violate the rights of a reader!  I'm happy to help you find backup if you need it, and would strongly recommend that the parents simply have conversations with their kiddo.

https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/librarybill
https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/librarybill/interpretations
 






On Fri, Dec 6, 2024 at 8:43 AM Lauren Yansick <yansickl@shermanschool.com> wrote:
I too agree that this would be considered a breach of the ALA's policy on intellectual freedom. It's definitely slippery when it comes to minors and their parents wanting to know what their child is reading. I would stand your ground with your principal and continue to encourage parents to have an open conversation with their child about what books they are reading. 


--
Lauren Yansick
Library Media Specialist
The Sherman School
"Google can bring you back 100,000 answers. A librarian can bring you back the right one." - Neil Gaiman



On Fri, Dec 6, 2024 at 8:33 AM Cathy Andronik via CASL-L <casl-l@mylist.net> wrote:
Isn't this an ALA privacy issue?

Cathy Andronik
Brien McMahon HS (retired)

On Friday 6 December 2024 at 08:27:51 am GMT-5, Allison Gale via CASL-L <casl-l@mylist.net> wrote:


I realize this is a slippery slope, but my principal is wondering if parents can be automatically notified when a student checks out a book- in an effort for transparency- so they know what their student is reading.
Does anyone have this or something similar set up/ have experience with this?
My suggestion was to encourage parents to have a conversation with their students and they can ask to see their checkout history when the student is logged in.


--
Mrs. Allison Gale
Library Media Specialist
Helen Keller Middle School Media Center
Instagram: @hkmsmediacenter


Note:
This communication is confidential and proprietary to Easton/Redding/Region 9 and its affiliates and is intended solely for the named addressee(s). If you are not the intended recipient, you should not copy, disclose or take any action in reliance on this communication. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender by reply e-mail and delete the message and any attached documents.
_______________________________________________
CASL-L mailing list
CASL-L@mylist.net
https://mylist.net/listinfo/casl-l
_______________________________________________
CASL-L mailing list
CASL-L@mylist.net
https://mylist.net/listinfo/casl-l
_______________________________________________
CASL-L mailing list
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https://mylist.net/listinfo/casl-l
_______________________________________________
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--
Cathy Ryan 🙂
Library Media Specialist 
Suffield Middle School

_______________________________________________
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--
Mrs. Allison Gale
Library Media Specialist
Helen Keller Middle School Media Center
Instagram: @hkmsmediacenter


Note:
This communication is confidential and proprietary to Easton/Redding/Region 9 and its affiliates and is intended solely for the named addressee(s). If you are not the intended recipient, you should not copy, disclose or take any action in reliance on this communication. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender by reply e-mail and delete the message and any attached documents.


---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: "Vasselle, Laura (Three-Rivers)" <laura.vasselle@ctstate.edu>
To: "casl-l@mylist.net" <casl-l@mylist.net>
Cc: 
Bcc: 
Date: Fri, 6 Dec 2024 18:56:25 +0000
Subject: [CASL-L] Registration is OPEN! Spring 2025 - Library Technology Certificate Program at CT State Three Rivers
Hello Colleagues and Friends,

Please spread the word! Registration for Spring 2025 courses is OPEN! 

The Connecticut State Community College Three Rivers offers a fully online Library Technology Certificate Program that is recognized by ALA as an approved provider for their Library Support Staff Certification (LSSC).

Our courses are interesting, with very relevant library specific content, preparing students to be successful in 21st century libraries.  Our 100% online, asynchronous courses provide flexible scheduling options making this the perfect program for anyone who wants to start a library career or broaden their library technology skill sets. 

In addition, our campus offers in-state tuition rates for our neighboring states, New York, Massachusetts and Rhode Island! 

Our Spring 2025 courses are:  
LIBR 1004 – Intro to Reference Services
LIBR 1023 – Intro to Library Tech Services
LIBR 2001 – Digital Information and Technology
LIBR 1020 – Library Youth Services
Visit our CT State Online Catalog to learn more about each course:
CT State Online Catalog - Library Technology Certificate Program

To register for a course, enroll in the program, or get more information, please contact:
Laura Vasselle, Librarian & Program Leader, laura.vasselle@ctstate.edu





Laura Vasselle, Librarian & Program Leader, Library Technology Certificate Program
Donald R. Welter Library 
CT State Three Rivers 
574 New London Turnpike
Norwich, CT  06360
laura.vasselle@ctstate.edu
(860) 215-9286

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