Confidentiality
It is imperative for ethical, moral and legal reasons that we protect the privacy of all persons using library materials. Privacy is essential to the exercise of free speech, free thought, and free association. (Refer to the American Library Association’s Code of Ethics.) Therefore, we will not reveal the following information to anyone other than Grinnell College librarians or library staff, or the relevant patron:
- Patron names, addresses or telephone numbers
- The name of the person who has an item checked out
- What items a person has checked out
- Internet sites or online databases used by a patron
- A patron's fines or bills
Food and Drink in the Libraries
The library policy regarding food and drink is designed with the long-term health of the collection in mind. Just a few crumbs or spilled sticky, sugary substances can create an environment that will make a variety of unwanted critters live happy and productive lives. Many insects and rodents enjoy the cellulose and glue that make up our book collection. So, though they may have been attracted by just a bit of food or spilled drink, they stay to enjoy the permanently available feast. To preserve our collection we need to keep the wildlife at bay. When we do find insects and other pests in the library, we must resort to chemical treatment, something that we would like to keep to an absolute minimum. In light of this, we ask that you not bring food into the library. We do allow drinks in covered containers. If you have any questions about our food and drink policy, please feel free to contact any of the librarians.
Grinnell College Libraries’ Policy Concerning Minors
The Grinnell College Libraries--Burling Library, the Curriculum Library, and the Kistle Science Library--serve the instructional, research, and general information needs of the campus community. Children under high school age are not allowed in the libraries unless they are accompanied by a parent or guardian. Access to materials in the libraries by minors is the sole responsibility of the minor’s parent or guardian. Parents are encouraged to work with their children to develop rules for the use of the libraries’ materials. Grinnell area residents high school age and above may have borrowing privileges as stated in our Borrowing and Circulation Policies for Grinnell Residents.
Computer Use Policy
Please see the Technology and Computer Use in the Libraries pagefor more information.
