Our Commitment to Privacy
The Claremont Colleges Library, a unit of The Claremont Colleges Services (TCCS), is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of its users. In keeping with the professional standards of the American Library Association, the Library safeguards information about users’ research, reading, and use of Library resources. We strive to collect only the minimum amount of personal information necessary to provide services and to ensure that individuals can seek information freely and without unnecessary monitoring.
Website Usage Information
When you visit the Library’s website, we may collect limited technical information such as:
- Your browser type and device
- Pages visited and time spent on the site
- Referring website addresses
This information is collected in aggregate form and is used to improve the usability and performance of our website.
We use tools provided by Google Analytics to better understand how users interact with our website, including through behavioral metrics and session analysis. These tools are configured to avoid directly identifying individual users.
Library Service Information
In order to provide Library services, we may collect and maintain certain information, including:
- Borrowing and circulation records
- Interlibrary loan and document delivery requests
- Research consultations and reference inquiries
- Use of Library technology, spaces, or equipment
Whenever possible, the Library limits the retention of personally identifiable information. For example, circulation records are typically removed or anonymized after materials are returned, unless needed for operational purposes or at the user’s request.
Information You Provide Voluntarily
We collect personal information only when you choose to provide it, such as when you:
- Submit a form
- Contact us via email
- Register for services or events
This information is used solely to fulfill your request or provide the requested service.
How We Use Information
Information collected by the Library is used to:
- Provide and manage Library services
- Improve website functionality and user experience
- Maintain the security and integrity of Library systems
- Meet legal and institutional requirements
The Library does not sell personal information and does not use personal data for commercial marketing purposes.
Third-Party Services and Licensed Resources
The Library provides access to a wide range of electronic resources and services from third-party providers, such as EBSCO Information Services, ProQuest, and Ex Libris.
When you access these external platforms, you may be subject to their privacy policies and data collection practices. The Library encourages users to review the privacy statements of these providers, as their practices may differ from those of TCCS.
Cookies and Tracking Technologies
The Library website may use cookies and similar technologies to:
- Enable essential site functionality
- Remember user preferences
- Collect analytics data
You may control or disable cookies through your browser settings. Disabling certain cookies may affect the functionality of some features of the website.
Data Retention and Security
The Library takes reasonable administrative, technical, and physical measures to protect personal information from unauthorized access, disclosure, or misuse.
We retain personal information only for as long as necessary to fulfill operational, legal, or service-related purposes. When information is no longer needed, it is securely deleted or anonymized.
Your Privacy Rights
As a California-based institution, TCCS is subject to the California Consumer Privacy Act. Depending on your relationship with the institution, you may have the right to:
- Request access to personal information we hold about you
- Request correction or deletion of your personal information
- Receive information about how your data is used
To make a request, please contact us using the information below.
External Links
The Library website may contain links to external websites. The Library is not responsible for the privacy practices or content of these sites.
Questions about our Policies
If you have questions about this Privacy Statement or about how your information is handled, please contact:
The Claremont Colleges Library
800 N. Dartmouth Avenue
Claremont, CA 91711
librarywebmaster@claremont.edu