Seattle Public Library says ransomware attack disrupted online services and access to e-books

Seattle Public Library said it experienced a data security incident that disrupted public access to e-books and e-audiobooks and online catalogs in 27 branches across the city.

 

In a recent press release, Seattle Public Library said that on May 25, it identified a ransomware attack that affected the library’s network. It immediately launched an investigation, with assistance from external cyber security experts, to determine the scope of the incident.

 

Library officials also notified law enforcement authorities about the incident and took the affected systems “fully offline to interrupt and better assess the nature and impacts of the event.”

 

“With our external partners, we continue to investigate the source of this disruption and are working as quickly and diligently as we can to confirm the extent of the impacts and restore full functionality to our systems. Privacy and security of patron and employee information are top priorities,” the library said.

 

Seattle Public Library added that the ransomware attack impacted access to staff and public computers, its online catalog and loaning system, e-books and e-audiobooks, in-building Wi-Fi, and its official website at www.spl.org.

 

“Despite these challenges, we intend to keep opening our doors as scheduled to welcome you in. You are invited to enjoy our spaces; check out our physical books, CDs and DVDs (using paper forms); and get your reference and referral questions answered to the best of our ability.

 

“Our hard-working staff, whose jobs have become more challenging without technology access, are ready and able to assist you to check out materials and use our spaces and amenities. Although you cannot currently place holds, you are welcome to pick up holds already on the shelves,” the library added.

 

The library announced on May 29 that it had restored its official website and the public could access some digital services and online versions of the New York Times, Wall Street Journal and Washington Post, but access to e-books continues to be unavailable.

 

“The Library continues working to securely restore more technology services, such as e-books and e-audiobooks, computers, Wi-Fi, printing and more. We will update this space as progress is made,” it added.