Privacy Statement

This privacy statement explains the procedures followed by Ask Here PA in collecting and using information regarding use of this service and advises you what information might be shared with third parties. Use of this service is your agreement to this Privacy Statement.

Below we describe what information we request and how it is used:

• Zip code: The number of sessions for each zip code is tabulated for statistical reporting. This information will only be used to gauge the reach of this service.
• Name: The Name is used by the software to identify a session and in communicating with the user. While a name is required, it does not have to be the full or real name. Names are stored in session transcripts, described below.
• Email address: An email address is not required to use this service. If one is provided, it will be used only in the provision of service from this site. No email addresses will be sold or given to any other entities. The Libraries may use the email address to:
  • Send a transcript of the session for your reference
  • Send a scanned document at a later time
  • Follow up on an incomplete session
  • Note that e-mails provided are automatically deleted from the transcript 90 days after the chat session has occurred.
• Phone number: A phone number is not required to use this service. If one is provided, it will be used only in the provision of service from this site. No phone numbers will be sold or given to any other entities. The Libraries may use the phone number to:
  • Contact a user during a session to further clarify a request for information
  • Follow up on an incomplete session

Transcripts may be used only:

• To email to the user as a record of the session and a reminder of any resources provided during the session.
• To monitor and improve the overall quality of service.
• To develop aggregated statistical data for reporting on the number of requests received, the number of requests completed, and the average length of sessions.

We will remove identifying information from transcripts when shared with outside entities for the above purposes. No other use of the transcripts will be permitted, nor may transcripts be quoted for any purpose whatsoever by anyone, including the providing libraries, except for statements about the Ask Here PA service itself which may appear in the Comments section of the transcript, and which do not reveal the identity of the user.

In the course of clarifying the request for information the Librarian may ask for information regarding purpose (for instance, is this for a homework assignment?), or reading or grade level. Such incidental information will be used to identify appropriate resources only.

Policy of Mutual Respect

We treat our customers with respect and expect the same in return. If you use abusive or inappropriate language, we will terminate the session and take appropriate action.

• Librarians staffing Ask Here PA protect the privacy of your question and identity. However, people who make threats or use offensive language will be reported to the
  appropriate authorities

• We contact schools and Internet service providers to report inappropriate use.

• While librarians are very skilled at finding the information you need, it may take a few minutes or more for the librarian complete their search. The typical session lasts 10-15 minutes. Therefore, please allow enough time for the librarian to find the answer. If you only have one or two minutes to allow for a session, please logon and ask your question when you will have more time. This will ensure that both you and the librarian assisting you will have a successful experience.