Laserfiche WebLink
Page 1 of 3 <br />Item #10 <br /> CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT <br /> <br />July 15, 2025 <br />Library and Recreation <br /> <br />TITLE: ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE PLEASANTON PUBLIC LIBRARY <br />PRIVACY POLICY <br /> <br />SUMMARY <br />City staff has developed a new Pleasanton Public Library Privacy Policy (Attachment 1), in <br />consultation with the Library Commission, to reflect changes in technology, legal requirements, <br />and evolving library practices. The policy ensures the Library continues to safeguard patron <br />information and remains compliant with state and federal laws, while aligning with the City's <br />core values of service, integrity, inclusion, and innovation. <br /> <br />RECOMMENDATION <br />Staff recommends that the City Council adopt a resolution (Attachment 2) approving the <br />Pleasanton Public Library Privacy Policy. <br /> <br />BACKGROUND <br />In California, public libraries are governed by specific laws to ensure the privacy of patron <br />records and to prevent the improper disclosure of user data. <br /> <br />The existing Pleasanton Library policy, Confidentiality of Library Records (1999), (Attachment <br />3), is over 25 years old and does not reflect advances in technology or privacy-related laws. It <br />also lacks the scope and clarity expected of a comprehensive privacy policy. In 2023, the <br />Library Commission’s Policy Subcommittee identified the need for a policy overhaul. At their <br />February 1, 2024, meeting, the Commission prioritized the development of a new privacy <br />policy as part of its annual goals. <br /> <br />To support this effort, the City engaged LDH Consulting Services (LDH). LDH specializes in <br />library data privacy and policy development. The professional services team worked with City <br />staff to assess current practices, identify privacy risks, and draft a comprehensive policy <br />outlining data collection, patron privacy safeguards, and legal compliance. <br /> <br />On May 2, 2024, the Library Commission received a presentation from LDH and provided input <br />on policy needs. This input, along with detailed information from staff, was incorporated into a <br />draft policy. At a subsequent December 5, 2024, meeting, the Commission reviewed the first <br />draft policy and suggested revisions to improve clarity and transparency, including adding a <br />table of contents, glossary, updated legal references, and clearer guidelines on vendor data <br />practices and emerging technologies. <br /> <br />At the April 3, 2025, meeting, the Commission reviewed and approved to recommend the <br />Pleasanton Public Library Privacy Policy, with minor revisions, including the addition of the <br />library app to the vendor list and glossary updates for consistency. <br /> <br />Page 272 of 694