Information You Provide
Names, phone numbers, and addresses entered in a search box are sent to the third-party provider that supplies the results. Our servers do not retain a copy of those queries. A message sent to us contains the information included in that message and is used to respond.
Automatic Technical Data
Hosting services maintain ordinary logs, such as an IP address, browser type, visited pages, and timestamps. We use aggregate information to maintain the service and understand usage. Cookies or similar tools may support basic analytics and, where relevant, advertising measurement.
How Limited Data Is Used
Limited data supports operation, troubleshooting, traffic measurement, and improvements to the reference. We do not sell visitor lists or create individual visitor profiles.
External Services and Links
Links lead to county and state portals, library collections, archives, and third-party search tools. Those services apply their own privacy policies to information submitted there, including information entered into sponsored search results.
Service Providers and Disclosure
Hosting and support providers process logs on our behalf. Analytics or advertising partners may receive the automatic data described above. Data are disclosed when valid legal process requires disclosure and not otherwise.
Data Security
The service uses an encrypted connection, and logs are retained only as long as the stated purposes require. There are no site accounts, so the reference does not keep a visitor password or user profile.
Visitors Under 18
The reference is intended for adults and is not directed to children. We do not knowingly collect personal information from anyone under 18. If a minor has sent information to us, contact us so it can be deleted.
Your Privacy Choices
Virginia’s Consumer Data Protection Act, Va. Code §59.1-577, gives covered consumers rights that can include access, correction, deletion, portability, and certain opt-outs. Because we retain little data, a request generally involves checking the contact mailbox and applicable logs, then removing information found there. Use the Contact page to submit a request. Public records held by Virginia, Montgomery County, or Christiansburg custodians are outside our control and must be addressed to the office that holds them.
Policy Changes
Changes to this policy will be posted here. Continued use after a posted revision indicates acceptance of the updated policy.