SEATTLE — The Seattle Public Library (SPL) said its online systems were targeted in a ransomware attack over Memorial Day weekend.
According to a release, the library noticed a ransomware attack affecting its technology systems early Saturday morning. This was just one day before SPL was going to take its systems offline for planned server maintenance over the long holiday weekend.
The library said the disruption started impacting access to staff and public computers, the online catalog and loaning system, e-books and e-audiobooks, in-building Wi-Fi, and its website. The library contacted third-party forensic specialists along with law enforcement before taking its systems fully offline to assess the impact of the ransomware attack.
SPL said its online services will remain offline until officials can ensure the system's security. There is no estimated time of resolution, but the library said in its release it will provide an update once services are restored.
Without online services, the library said it would keep its doors open for the public to check out physical books, CDs and DVDs using paper forms. The public cannot currently place holds on materials, but you can pick up holds already on the shelves. The library said to make sure you bring your physical library card or library card number.
The SPL is encouraging people to hold on to the physical materials longer than usual because staffers cannot check physical materials back into the catalog. The library still does not charge daily late fines for overdue materials.
Once the library services are back online, staffers will update due dates for materials.