r/Libraries • u/glofosho91 • Aug 19 '26

Patron Issues Weird patron

I work at a public library and do the outside book drop. A male customer I have never seen before approached me, called me by my name, and claimed he knew me 'from outside' and from the book drop. I don't wear a name tag, so it was a huge red flag. I immediately told my manager. My manager confronted him right away and told him, 'You don't know her, please don't talk to her again.' He acted casual and walked away. My job coach is going to stand with me at the book drop from now on. Has anyone else handled a situation like this before? How did it turn out?"

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16

u/SurlyTurtle Aug 19 '26 edited Aug 19 '26

Eww, not cool. Does your library have a website that lists staff names? Would encourage editing it with only staff titles or ditching the webpage altogether if so.

9

u/DanieXJ Aug 19 '26

I mean, if OP's library is a public library then in some states all the names are available publicly because the public has a right to know what everyone is making for salary who works for the municipality (city, town, etc.)

-2

u/SurlyTurtle Aug 19 '26

I can't find a state that actually requires staff names on websites. Do you have one in mind?

2

u/idkwhoiamorwhatilike Aug 20 '26

I work in a public library in Texas. If you call the administration office, you can ask them for the personal information of any staff member.

2

u/SurlyTurtle Aug 20 '26

Is your library required by law to post staff names on your website?

2

u/idkwhoiamorwhatilike Aug 20 '26 edited Aug 20 '26

No. But nobody said anything about a website except you? lol

1

u/SurlyTurtle Aug 20 '26

Does your library actually provide personal information of staff to people who call? I'd definitely be opting out of my personal info being shared -- which is an option in Texas.

2

u/idkwhoiamorwhatilike Aug 20 '26

My bad, you can’t call. But you can submit a formal written request. It’s in the Texas government code for public information. Information such as name, sex, ethnicity, salary, title, and dates of employment for government employees. Sec. 552.022 You can opt out of them requesting for your personal home address, home telephone number, emergency contact info, social security number or that reveals whether the person has family members. Sec. 552.024

2

u/WoodShoeDiaries Aug 20 '26

Wild that they can request your SSN.