Reflection #2 – Protecting Patron Privacy
This topic has been at the forefront of my mind since the beginning of the spring semester. You might recall that my background is in network engineering. For the final project in INFO 230, Issues in Academic Libraries, I recorded a mock teaching demonstration for a librarian position in science, engineering, and connected computing. And from Module 7, the lessons of technology being a tool and making the connection between hard tech and soft skills was 💡
The learning objective I crafted:
My overall goal for the teaching demo was to show students and faculty how to be proactive in protecting their digital selves and their research. In addition, I wanted them to understand why practices and protocols were designed the way they were. And just like a library, a school can only do so much. As Sykes (2024) pointed out, a good place to start is with the HTTPS protocol and using browsers, like Tor.
The first item I addressed was password strength. By no means is this to scare people into analysis paralysis, but I did want it to be a wake-up call. Â
And the online application I used for my demonstration.
There was a moment when I had to laugh because my professor said I wasn’t innovative enough. Sure, let me out innovate MIT, I’ll be right back!
My library already has tech tutoring programs, but I think the public needs more. Once I’m done with this program, I’d like to partner with them and plan a few sessions. It’s been a year since their systems were hacked by the PlayCrypt ransomware group:
References
Ford, A. (2017, April 21). How to protect patrons’ digital privacy. American Libraries. https://americanlibrariesmagazine.org/2017/04/21/protect-patrons-digital-privacy/
Neskey, C. (2025). Are your passwords in the green? Hive Systems. https://www.hivesystems.com/blog/are-your-passwords-in-the-green
Sykes, A. (2024). The ultimate personal security checklist: Your guide to securing your digital life and protecting your privacy [Web application]. GitHub. https://digital-defense.io/
Young, O. (2024, January 22). Douglas County Libraries hacked by overseas criminal group. CBS News. https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/douglas-county-libraries-hacked-overseas-criminal-group/
