Privacy Policy

Last Updated: October 23, 2026

1. Information We Collect

When you use the Library Discovery System, we collect the following types of information:

  • Account Information: Name, email address, institutional affiliation, and role
  • Search History: Your search queries and results to improve your experience
  • Bookmarks: Resources you save for later reference
  • Usage Data: Information about how you interact with the system (timestamps, IP addresses, browser type)

2. How We Use Your Information

We use the collected information for the following purposes:

  • Providing and maintaining our service
  • Personalizing your search experience
  • Improving search algorithms and results
  • Analyzing system usage and performance
  • Communicating with you about service updates
  • Ensuring security and preventing abuse

3. Data Storage and Security

We implement industry-standard security measures to protect your data:

  • Encrypted password storage using bcrypt hashing
  • Secure HTTPS connections for all data transmission
  • Regular security audits and updates
  • Access controls and authentication mechanisms
  • Data backups and disaster recovery procedures

4. Data Sharing

We do not sell or rent your personal information to third parties. We may share data only in the following circumstances:

  • With your explicit consent
  • To comply with legal obligations
  • With library systems to fulfill search requests
  • In anonymized form for research and analytics

5. Your Rights

You have the right to:

  • Access your personal data
  • Update or correct your information
  • Delete your account and associated data
  • Export your search history and bookmarks
  • Opt-out of certain data collection practices

6. Cookies and Tracking

We use cookies and similar technologies to maintain your session and improve functionality. You can control cookie settings through your browser preferences.

7. Data Retention

We retain your data as long as your account is active or as needed to provide services. You may request deletion of your data at any time through your profile settings.

8. Changes to This Policy

We may update this privacy policy from time to time. We will notify users of significant changes via email or through the system interface.

9. Contact Us

If you have questions about this privacy policy or your data, please contact us.