The Broadview branch of the Seattle Public Library was impacted by a cyberattack that severely limited the library’s technological capabilities, leading to a quiet and empty atmosphere. Despite the disruption, patrons were able to check out books and access library materials through manual processes that did not rely on the use of computers or barcodes. Librarians were tasked with manually recording 13-digit numbers from books and library cards in order to facilitate checkouts, with a record 293,000 active patrons in 2023 using the Seattle Public Library in various ways throughout the year.
The cyberattack affected the library’s systems, including staff and public computers, online catalog and loaning systems, e-books and e-audiobooks, in-building Wi-Fi, and the library website. While the technology was down, librarians demonstrated their adaptability by continuing to provide services through manual methods, such as hand-writing book information. Despite the challenges posed by the cyberattack, dedicated staff remained committed to ensuring that patrons could still access library resources, such as books and other materials, through alternative means.
Seattle’s 27 branch locations, including the Broadview branch, were affected by the cyber incident, which forced staff to manually enter data in order to keep track of library materials being checked out and returned. The necessity of manual data entry highlighted the importance of human labor and adaptability in the face of technological disruptions. Despite the challenges posed by the cyberattack, the Seattle Public Library remained committed to serving its community and providing access to essential resources for its patrons.
The Seattle Public Library is a vital resource in the community, with record numbers of patrons utilizing its services for a variety of needs, from checking out physical and digital materials to accessing online resources. The library system’s popularity is evidenced by the large number of checkouts and patron visits, with the Central Library in downtown Seattle being the busiest location. This popularity demonstrates the critical role libraries play in providing access to information and resources for the public.
Patrons like Hans Teuber and Lise Glaser continued to visit the library despite the technological challenges posed by the cyberattack, demonstrating their commitment to accessing books and other materials. Teuber, a self-described “low tech” Baby Boomer, emphasized his comfort with traditional methods of accessing library resources and his resistance to over-reliance on technology. Glaser, on the other hand, expressed her love for books and her dedication to visiting the library, even in the face of the tech outage.
The ongoing investigation into the cyberattack has limited the Seattle Public Library’s ability to fully restore its systems and provide a timeline for when operations will return to normal. Laura Gentry, head of communications for the library, noted that updates are being posted on the Shelf Talk blog to keep patrons informed of operational changes. Despite the challenges posed by the cyber incident, the dedication of library staff and patrons to accessing resources and information demonstrates the enduring value of libraries in communities.
