Information We Collect

When you visit Natural History Library, routine server logs record your IP address, browser type, operating system, referring pages, and the date and time of each request. This data is used to maintain the site, diagnose technical issues, and understand aggregate usage patterns. These logs are stored temporarily and are not enriched with additional identifiers.

If you send a message via the contact form or email the collection editor, we receive the content of your message and the email address you provide. We use this only to respond to your inquiry and do not add it to any marketing list. We do not share your message content beyond what is necessary to address your question.

We may store small preferences (such as text size or display options) in your browser using local storage or cookies. These are not shared with third parties and are used solely to improve your browsing experience on this site.

Cookies and Similar Technologies

We use cookies and similar technologies where enabled to improve your experience. Essential cookies are necessary for the site to function, such as remembering your cookie consent choice. Analytics and advertising cookies are used only with your consent, where applicable. You can manage these preferences through the cookie consent banner displayed on your first visit or at any time via the link provided in the site footer.

Where enabled, we use a web analytics service that sets cookies to collect anonymous information about how visitors use the site, including pages visited, time spent, and how you arrived. This data is aggregated and not used to identify individuals. We use this information to understand which sections of the catalogue are most engaging and to improve our content.

If advertising is displayed, third-party vendors (including Google) may use cookies to serve ads based on your visits to this and other websites. Google’s use of advertising cookies enables it and its partners to serve ads based on your browsing history. You may opt out of personalized advertising by visiting Google’s Ads Settings. We also may use web beacons (clear GIFs) in emails or on the site to track delivery and engagement, where applicable. These beacons do not collect personal data beyond what is necessary for the specific function.

How We Use Your Data

We process your data for the following purposes:

• To operate and maintain the catalogue.
• To improve site content and usability.
• To respond to your messages.
• To display relevant advertising, where enabled.
• To comply with legal obligations.

We do not sell your personal data to third parties. We do not use your data for automated decision-making or profiling that produces legal effects.

Third-Party Service Providers

We may engage limited service providers (such as hosting, analytics, and advertising platforms) to assist in operating the site. These providers have access to your data only to perform tasks on our behalf and are contractually bound to protect it. We require them to comply with applicable data protection laws and to use the data only for the purposes we specify.

Data Security

We implement reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect your personal data against unauthorized access, loss, or alteration. These include encryption where appropriate, access controls, and regular security reviews. However, no method of transmission or storage is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

Data Retention

We retain server logs for a limited period necessary for operational and security purposes, typically no longer than several months. Personal data from messages is retained only as long as needed to address your inquiry, after which it is deleted. Cookie and analytics data are retained according to the respective provider’s policies, which are designed to respect your privacy.

Your Choices and Rights

You can control cookies through your browser settings. Most browsers allow you to block or delete cookies. You can also use the cookie consent banner on this site to manage your preferences. If you disable certain cookies, some features of the site may not function as intended.

Depending on your location, you may have rights to access, correct, delete, or port your personal data. You may also object to or restrict certain processing. To exercise these rights, contact us at editor@rbini.com. We will respond within a reasonable timeframe, usually within thirty days. We may need to verify your identity before processing your request.

You may opt out of Google Analytics by installing the Google Analytics opt-out browser add-on available at Google’s website. For advertising cookies, you can also visit the Network Advertising Initiative opt-out page.

Children’s Privacy

We do not knowingly collect personal data from children. If you believe a child has provided us with personal information, please contact us so we can remove it. Our services are not directed to children, and we encourage parents and guardians to supervise children’s online activities.

External Links

This site contains links to external websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of those sites. We encourage you to read their privacy policies before providing any personal information.

International Access

This site is operated from Australia. If you access it from outside Australia, your data may be transferred to and processed in Australia or other countries where our service providers operate. By using the site, you consent to such transfer. We take steps to ensure that any data transfer complies with applicable data protection laws.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this privacy policy from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page. Your continued use of the site after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy. We encourage you to review this policy periodically.

Contact

If you have questions about this privacy policy or your data, please contact the Collection Editor at editor@rbini.com. We are happy to clarify any aspect of our data practices.