Libraries post Patriot Act warnings

“Along with the usual reminders to hold the noise down and pay overdue fines, library patrons in Santa Cruz are seeing a new type of sign these days: a warning that records of the books they borrow may wind up in the hands of federal agents.”

“The signs, posted in the 10 county branches last week and on the library’s Web site, also inform the reader that the USA Patriot Act “prohibits library workers from informing you if federal agents have obtained records about you.”

“Questions about this policy,” patrons are told, “should be directed to Attorney General John Ashcroft, Department of Justice, Washington, D.C. 20530.” (from The San Fransisco Chronicle)