Library Response to Court Orders, Subpoenas, or Search Warrants
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Response to Court Orders, Subpoenas, or Search Warrants
(For the full campus statement, see the page of the General Counsel)
Without a valid court order, subpoena, or search warrant, no third party, including the FBI, local law enforcement, or government agencies, can compel responses or gain access to College records or information other than the name and business address of the person speaking to the agent or officer.
Library staff must observe the following procedures:
- Staff must not disclose confidential and/or private information (in writing or orally) as defined in the Library’s Confidentiality Policy, applicable law (i.e., FERPA), and College Policy.
- Staff may share, “I understand you are here for law enforcement purposes, but I am not authorized to grant you permission to enter nonpublic areas or accept any documentation on behalf of the College” and refer the agents to Campus Safety.
- While government agents may enter public areas of the Library without a warrant, a warrant is needed for non-public spaces (e.g, staff offices, restrooms). Agents should be asked to wait to enter any non-public areas until they have contacted Campus Safety and the Dean of the Library.
- Individuals who are approached by an agent or officer should not attempt to impede the physical access or presence of the agent or officer.
- Before providing any response to any oral inquiry, court order, warrant, or subpoena, you must immediately contact the following to alert them of the inquiry or request:
- The Dean of Library and Academic Resources, Lauren MacDonald,
- your supervisor,
- and Campus Safety (925-631-4282)
At the same time, refer the agent or law enforcement officer directly to Campus Safety.
Contacts
Campus Safety
(925) 631-4282
Nathan Johnson, Executive Director for Campus Safety & Transportation
(925) 631-8097
Lauren MacDonald, Dean of the Library and Academic Resources
(925) 631-4232
Updated: February 24, 2026