| Abstract: | Abstract Academic libraries with public access computers are faced with the challenge of balancing patron privacy rights with accountability and system security. What should libraries do when a patron uses a public Internet connection to send harassing email messages or hack into a remote network, or into the library's own system? This article examines the conflicting values of privacy and security. It examines patron authentication as a security measure and the safeguards that should accompany such a system. Several options are offered for addressing this dilemma. A summary of university appropriate use policies is presented with recommendations and a sample policy statement. |
