Privacy Management Plan
In accordance with POPA, the Olds Municipal Library maintains a Privacy Management Plan. Download and read the full plan. Because of these changes, we have had to make some changes in our procedures to be in compliance with the new legislation. You can read about the changes below.
Effective June 11, 2026
To comply with Alberta’s new Protection of Privacy Act (POPA), Olds Municipal Library is updating our security standards and account procedures.
Why the change?
New provincial legislation (replacing FOIP) requires all public bodies to implement stricter privacy protections. These updates ensure your library record, including your contact details, presence in the library, borrowed items, and program registrations, is only accessible to you or those you have explicitly authorized.
We will be rolling out these changes over the coming months, with full implementation by June 11, 2026.
Changes and Information that may affect you:
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Your Library Card is Key: As of June 11, 2026, you will be required to present your library card to access your account, check out materials, or pick up holds. Digital cards or verbal library card numbers are allowed, (we may ask you to verify some data).
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Family Access: Under POPA, we are not allowed to grant access to a person’s account if express consent is not given. Record of that consent must be tracked. This means every member of the family should have their own library card so we can make associations between cards.
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If you wish to allow a family member to pick up items on your behalf or borrow items, please speak with staff to add an account association allowing access. (i.e. you want your husband to pick up your books).
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You ARE allowed to check out books on your card for a family member.
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You ARE allowed to use our self-checkout without further verification.
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Replacement Cards: If you have misplaced your card or it is no longer readable, please visit the circulation desk. Our staff will be happy to issue a replacement free of charge.
Account Access Without a Card: In rare circumstances, If you arrive at the library without your physical or digital card, we do understand! Our staff will need to perform an identity verification (such as confirming details or obtaining ID) before granting access to your account.
We Are Here to Help!
We understand that these new provincial requirements may change your usual routine. These steps are a vital part of keeping your data, reading preferences, political affiliations, and location safe. Thank you for your understanding.
If you have any questions regarding these changes or how we handle your personal information, please contact our Library Manager/Privacy Officer at 403-556-6460 or oml@prl.ab.ca
Thank you for helping us keep your library a safe and private space for everyone.