USABILITY AND PRIVACY IN ACADEMIC LIBRARIES: REGAINING A FOOTHOLD THROUGH IDENTITY AND ACCESS MANAGEMENT

Abstract

This paper discussed how identity and access management is applied to libraries to improve their usability and protect the privacy of the users. The gains from efforts to simplify the academic experience of the students can be weighed based on the quality of academic materials that they get access to daily [1]. However, there are many data security precautions that institutions must take to safeguard the private information of their users. Using an example of a University Library's involvement in single sign-on initiatives in cooperation with the IT department as well as a third-party software provider, a strategy for academic libraries to more solidly integrate privacy and security in their systems is important. One element of cooperation where the librarian's standard devotion to patron or user privacy may be maintained is identity and access management. The idea that technology is a driver for 'disruptive innovation' in the libraries field has been widely explored in academic and broader print publications [2]. Furthermore, the difficulties and possibilities posed by technical advancements like e-books and cable Internet connectivity in homes, along with the additional constraints imposed by public-sector cutbacks, are well documented. Most of these advancements questioned the significance (or should be) of library collections in the 21st century.