Information We Collect
When you visit the Public Domain Literature Library, our servers automatically record certain technical details: your IP address, browser type and version, operating system, referring pages, and the date and time of each request. We also collect information that you voluntarily provide, such as messages sent through our contact form or preferences you select on the site.
Cookies and Similar Technologies
We use cookies and similar technologies to improve your experience. A cookie is a small text file stored on your device. We use session cookies to remember your preferences during a visit and persistent cookies to recognize you on return visits where enabled. If advertising is displayed, third-party ad networks may place their own cookies on your device. Web beacons (transparent images) may be used to count visits and understand usage patterns. You can manage your cookie preferences through our consent controls or your browser settings.
Analytics
Where enabled, we use analytics services to collect aggregated data about how visitors use the catalogue. These services may record pages visited, time spent, and interactions, but we do not link this information to any individual. The data helps us understand which literary works and categories—such as Exploration & Survival or Battles and Military History—resonate with readers, allowing us to improve the catalogue.
Advertising
If advertising is displayed on the site, Google and other ad networks may serve ads based on your interests using cookies and device identifiers. You can learn more about Google's advertising practices and opt out of personalized advertising by visiting Google's Ads Settings. We do not control the data collected by these networks, and their use is governed by their own privacy policies.
How We Use Your Information
We use collected information to operate and improve the catalogue, to communicate with you if you contact us, to personalize content where possible, and to analyze usage trends. For example, we may note that many readers access companion guides for works like Ethan Frome or A Hazard of New Fortunes, helping us prioritize similar content. We do not sell your personal information to third parties.
Service Providers
We may share limited data with trusted service providers who help us operate the site, such as hosting and analytics providers. These providers are contractually bound to use your information only for the purposes we specify and to maintain its confidentiality.
Data Security
We implement reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect your information against unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. However, no method of transmission or storage is completely secure. We encourage you to take steps to protect your own data, such as using strong passwords and keeping your software updated.
Data Retention
We retain your information only as long as necessary for the purposes described in this policy or as required by law. Specific retention periods depend on the type of data and the purpose of processing. For instance, server logs are typically retained for a limited period before being anonymized or deleted.
Your Choices
You can control cookies through your browser settings. Most browsers allow you to block or delete cookies. If you disable cookies, some features of the catalogue may not function properly. You may also opt out of analytics and advertising cookies using the consent controls provided on the site. Additionally, you can choose not to provide information via our contact form.
Your Rights
Depending on your location, you may have rights regarding your personal information, including the right to access, correct, delete, or port your data, and the right to object to or restrict processing. To exercise these rights, please contact us using the information below. We will respond to your request in accordance with applicable law.
Children's Privacy
We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If you believe a child has provided us with personal data, please contact us so we can delete it. Our catalogue is intended for a general audience and does not target children.
External Links
The catalogue may contain links to external websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of those sites. We encourage you to review their privacy policies before providing any personal information.
International Access
The Public Domain Literature Library is based in Australia and may be accessed from other countries. If you access the site from outside Australia, your information may be transferred to and processed in Australia or other countries where our service providers operate. By using the site, you consent to such transfers. We take steps to ensure that any transferred data receives an adequate level of protection.
Changes to This Policy
We may update this privacy policy from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page. We encourage you to review this policy periodically. Your continued use of the catalogue after changes are posted constitutes your acceptance of the updated policy.
Contact
If you have questions or concerns about this policy, please contact us at [email protected]. We welcome your feedback and will do our best to address your inquiries promptly.