Library Response to Court Orders, Subpoenas, or Search Warrants

Response to Court Orders, Subpoenas, or Search Warrants

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.

In the event an agent or officer does present a court order, subpoena, or search warrant, Saint Albert Hall 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 until the legal sufficiency of the court order, subpoena, or warrant has been reviewed by the College’s Office of the General Counsel (“OGC”).  The staff person’s supervisor and the Dean of Library and Academic Services must be contacted immediately if such a request is made or document presented so that immediate and appropriate contact with the College’s OGC can occur.  
• 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 OGC, Dean of Library and Academic Resources, Lauren MacDonald, and your supervisor to alert them of the inquiry or request.  At that same time, refer the agent or law enforcement officer directly to the OGC (x4831).
• Should a search or production of College records and information be legally required, the OGC is available to provide legal advice and guidance prior to and, if needed, during any on-site search, production of records, or interview.  Because this event could happen at non-standard times, such as weekends and late nights, we have established a phone tree for Library Staff and the OGC for night and weekend emergencies.

While government agents may enter public areas of the Library without a warrant, a warrant is needed for non-public spaces. 

Agents should be asked to wait to enter any nonpublic areas until contacting the Office of the General Counsel or the Dean of the Library. 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 the OGC. 

Phone Tree
General Counsel's Office:

(925) 631-4831

Library:

Lauren MacDonald, Dean

(925) 631-4232

Updated: February 6, 2025