Illusory bastions
OCLC Systems & Services: International digital library perspectives
ISSN: 1065-075X
Article publication date: 10 August 2015
Abstract
Purpose
This column explores issues regarding the exposure of online patron information, privacy and intellectual freedom. Several angles are explored and ways in which libraries can effectively respond to these issues are proposed.
Design/methodology/approach
This is a regular journal column.
Findings
There is a need for balance in our concerns over the use of technology and patron privacy and freedom. On the one hand, libraries have an obligation to maintain patron privacy to promote intellectual freedom. On the other hand, once reasonable steps are taken to protect patrons, an informed-consent approach seems to strike the right balance between protection from constraint and the freedom to research as a person sees fit.
Originality/value
The Internet is known as the “information highway” but is also an “Internet of Things” where smart devices are connected to one another either through centralized services or peer-to-peer networks. This growing phenomenon is a result as much of the desire to automate as it is the increased expectations for convenience and ease of use. Libraries need to be prepared to protect patrons from external threats to privacy as a response to this situation, as well as educate patrons on the risks associated with data aggregation and exposure through the use of online services.
Keywords
Citation
Fox, R. (2015), "Illusory bastions", OCLC Systems & Services: International digital library perspectives, Vol. 31 No. 3, pp. 102-107. https://doi.org/10.1108/OCLC-05-2015-0003
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2015, Emerald Group Publishing Limited