Libraries Privacy Notice
Who are we and what do we do
Libraries, Arts and Heritage is part of Gateshead Council. We are based at Gateshead Central Library and across seven other core library branches and six volunteer run libraries. We provide the following services:
- books, large print books and audiobooks to borrow
- free access to the internet via Wi-Fi or computers with Microsoft Office
- Gateshead Archive, a local history collection including maps, photographs, books and manuscripts
- online resources including BorrowBox, our digital library
- MakerPlace provides access to and training on computer-controlled equipment
- Micro-bits to borrow
- printing, photocopying and scanning
- regular reading related activities for all ages
- School library visits
This privacy notice provides specific information about how we process your personal data. It is an addition to the information contained in our Corporate privacy notice.
What type of information is collected about you
We collect personal information to understand your needs and provide services. Information may include:
- name
- date of birth
- email address
- postal address
- phone number
- a record of any items you have borrowed or reserved from us
- a record of any payments made
- we will sometimes collect images at events like author talks, but only after you have given your permission
- your child's school, if they take part in the summer reading challenge
- logs of any sites you visit when you use our computers. We only look at these logs if we have reason to believe the sites you have visited are inappropriate or violate the rules set out in our Acceptable Use Policy. This includes PC usage at the Volunteer Run Libraries in Gateshead.
How we collect information about you
We collect information about you from various sources to ensure that we meet your needs, including:
- when you join the library
- face to face
- online
- when you use our lending or internet services
- when you use our public access computers
- when you book or attend activities
If you use our website, analytics are used so we can find out how many people have visited our site. We do not collect identifiable information about you this way.
Why we need your information
Our purpose for collecting your personal data is to provide public library services as required by the Public Libraries and Museums Act 1964 and the lawful basis for our processing under the General Data Protection Regulation is.
- consent
- task in the public interest with a basis in law
Who your information can be shared with
Our Corporate Privacy notice explains information sharing the Council carries out. This sharing fulfils statutory obligations, legal requirements and service delivery.
If we wish to share your information with other council services or third parties for purposes outside of those listed above we will ask your permission.
How long we will keep your information
We keep your information for as long as we need to provide services to you. We may also need to keep your information in accordance with legal or other obligations. Where we have no need to keep your data it will be securely destroyed. We keep a Record of Processing Activity (a requirement under the GDPR). This sets out the specific retention periods applicable in different circumstances. For more information please contact: 0191 433 8410 or contact us by email.
Where your information is held
The data that allows us to provide a lending service is kept in our Library Management System and other data that we require to provide services is kept securely in the Microsoft Cloud or in hard copy within secure staff areas of the library. We currently use the third party website, Eventbrite, to manage tickets for events, so if we book tickets for you, Eventbrite will also hold your data.
How you can update your information
Our delivery of efficient services depends on the accuracy of your information.
Please inform us of any changes to the following:
- email address
- personal circumstances
- postal address
- any of the other information we hold
Please contact: 0191 433 8410
Your information rights
Please see the relevant section of our Corporate privacy notice.
Marketing and e-newsletters
Gateshead Council always acts upon your choices around what type of communications you want to receive and how you want to receive them. Where you have signed up for one of our newsletters, we use email newsletters to inform you of what we're doing, news and events. This includes newsletters from Gateshead Libraries, Arts & Heritage teams.
For further information please see our email marketing privacy notice.
Business intelligence, profiling and automated-decision making
Please see the relevant section of our Corporate privacy notice.
Protecting your information
Please see the relevant section of our Corporate privacy notice.
Data Protection Officer
Data Protection Officer
Civic Centre
Regent Street
Gateshead
NE8 1HH
0191 433 3000
Information Commissioner's Office
The Information Commissioner is the UK's independent body for upholding information rights. Visit their website (opens new window) to find out more about your rights under Data Protection law, and what to expect from us.
For privacy practices or data protection rights concerns, contact the Information Commissioner's Office:
Information Commissioner's Office
Wycliffe House
Water Lane
Wilmslow
Cheshire SK9 5AF
0303 123 1113 or 01625 545 745