Missouri § 182.817 - Disclosure of library records not required — exceptions — complaint may be filed for compromised privacy, procedure.
Full text of Missouri Revised Statutes of Missouri § 182.817 — Disclosure of library records not required — exceptions — complaint may be filed for compromised privacy, procedure., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 182.817. Disclosure of library records not required — exceptions — complaint may be filed for compromised privacy, procedure.
1. Notwithstanding the provisions of any other law to the contrary, no library, employee or agent of a library, or third party contracted by a library that receives, transmits, maintains, or stores library records shall release or disclose a library record or portion of a library record to any person or persons except:
(1) In response to a written request of the person identified in that record, according to procedures and forms giving written consent as determined by the library; or
(2) In response to an order issued by a court of competent jurisdiction upon a finding that the disclosure of such record is necessary to protect the public safety or to prosecute a crime.
2. Any person whose privacy is compromised as a result of an alleged violation of this section may file a written complaint within one hundred eighty days of the alleged violation with the office of the attorney general describing the facts surrounding the alleged violation. Such person may additionally bring a private civil action in the circuit court of the county in which the library is located to recover damages. The court may, in its discretion, award punitive damages and may award to the prevailing party attorney's fees, based on the amount of time reasonably expended, and may provide such equitable relief as it deems necessary or proper. A prevailing respondent may be awarded attorney fees under this subsection only upon a showing that the case is without foundation.
3. Upon receipt of a complaint filed in accordance with subsection 2 of this section, the attorney general shall review each complaint and may initiate legal action if deemed appropriate.
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(L. 1986 H.B. 1372 § 2, A.L. 2014 H.B. 1085)
---- end of effective 28 Aug 2014 ----
Source: official Missouri text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Missouri § 182.817
What does Revised Statutes of Missouri § 182.817 cover?
Section 182.817 ("Disclosure of library records not required — exceptions — complaint may be filed for compromised privacy, procedure.") is part of the Revised Statutes of Missouri, the codified statutory law of Missouri. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Missouri § 182.817?
A common citation format is "Revised Statutes of Missouri § 182.817" (Missouri). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Missouri law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Missouri official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Missouri attorney.
How does Missouri § 182.817 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Missouri can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Missouri.