Books for Lending, Data for Taking

On websites like Netflix or Amazon, members can personalize their experiences by taking interest surveys or puchasing certain items. The website then shows items of the customer's interests. Libraries are beginning to adopt a similar technology. At North Carolina State University, students and staff will soon be able to sign up for an internet based service sending the individuals reminders of favorite publications. Many libraries are beginning to cater more and more to the needs of their customers. By incorporating more internet based technology into libraries, the belief is that the library will appeal to younger generations.

One major concern is the privacy of members. After the Patriot Act was approved after 9/11, it is even easier for law enforcers to aquire information on citizens. Michael Golrick, the city librarian in Bridgeport, Connecticut says one solution is for participating libraries to rotate their records often, and dumping any old information. This way if law enforcement officials come around there is little information available. "I can't give what I don't have," he said.

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