Bartlett Library Recovers from Ransomware Virus
The Bartlett Public Library District's computer systems were disabled on Saturday, November 30, 2019 by a ransomware virus.
Ransomware encrypts data so that the owner loses access to all of their files and emails.
No one's private information was compromised. The library does not store sensitive information such as credit cards, social security numbers, and/or driver's license numbers.
During this time, staff could not check items in or out using Polaris (an Integrated Library System), and had to maintain the information manually using a spreadsheet. Staff also could not receive or send any emails as they did not have access to the necessary server.
Starting on Dec. 1, patrons again had access to the internet/Wi-Fi and then, a couple days later on Dec. 3, printing services.
The library's catalog was restored as of Wednesday, Dec. 4. After that, staff members worked on processing manual checkouts from the previous few days, as well as checking items back into the system.
No hold or overdue notices were sent through the duration of Polaris being down. Circulation staff continue to give patrons a grace period for late fees to compensate for any system discrepancies.
As of Thursday, Dec. 12, all of the systems are up and functional, including email.
If you notice a problem with your account, please call Circulation at 630.837.2855.
The library thanks its patrons for being patient as we worked through this challenging and unfortunate situation. We apologize for any inconvenience.