As a state funded library, the University of Colorado Law Library is open
to the all comers. We make our resources available to the public
(except, of course, for the CALR services and certain other "student-only"
computer equipment) and allow non-students/faculty to check out books and
circulating materials.
For a number of years, we have required identification, specifically a
social security number, from those who wish to check out library
materials. This number becomes their "user ID" and is put on their
library card. It is also the number required by our state collection
agency if we turn someone in for non-payment of overdue fines or lost
book charges. (We have the enforcement end of our policies down quite
well!)
We have had several patrons challenge our use of social security
numbers. For them, we create a "dummy" number but have still required
that they give us their SSN for our internal records. Now, we have a
public patron who refuses to give his SSN for any purpose.
We requested an opinion from our university legal counsel on whether we
can REQUIRE a SSN before circulating books, especially in light of the
state collection agency's insistence that we provide them with it if we
wish to use their services. University counsel says no, we cannot
require a social security number of anyone.
I know that use of the SSN for identification is widespread; we use it as
a student identification number at the University. I also know that
there are very limited exceptions to the basic rule that it's not to be
used for these purposes.
So-o-o, the question is, has anyone else run into this issue? If so, how
was it resolved? Any information would be welcome; we are not entirely
comfortable with the university counsel's conclusions, and would be
interested in hearing the outcome of this issue at other state
universities.
Many thanks,
Barbara Bintliff
University of Colorado Law Library
Campus Box 402
Boulder, CO 80309
(303) 492-1233
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