How We Use Cookies and Similar Technologies
This page explains what cookies and similar storage technologies are used on the Public Domain Literature Library website (the 'Site') and how you can control them. We are committed to being clear about the data we store on your device and why.
What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files placed on your computer or mobile device when you visit a website. They are widely used to make websites work efficiently and to provide information to the site owner. Other technologies, such as local storage and web beacons, may serve similar purposes. Where this policy refers to 'cookies', it includes these similar technologies where applicable.
Types of Cookies We Use
Essential Cookies
These cookies are necessary for the Site to function and cannot be switched off in our systems. They are usually set only in response to actions you take that amount to a request for services, such as setting your privacy preferences, logging in, or filling in forms. You can set your browser to block or alert you about these cookies, but some parts of the Site may not work properly without them. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable information.
Preference Cookies
These cookies allow the Site to remember choices you make (such as your preferred language or the region you are in) and provide enhanced, more personal features. They may be set by us or by third-party providers whose services we have added to our pages. If you do not allow these cookies, some or all of these services may not function correctly.
Analytics Cookies (where enabled)
We may use analytics services, such as Google Analytics, to collect information about how visitors use the Site. These cookies help us understand which pages are most popular, how users navigate the Site, and if they encounter errors. The information collected is aggregated and anonymous. If analytics cookies are enabled, they allow us to improve the Site's performance and your experience. You can opt out of these cookies as described below.
Advertising Cookies (where ads are displayed)
Where advertisements are shown on the Site, we may use cookies to make advertising more relevant to you. These cookies may be set by us or by third-party advertising networks, such as Google AdSense or other Google advertising technologies. They track your visit across websites and build a profile of your interests. If you do not allow these cookies, you will still see advertisements, but they will be less targeted to your interests.
First-Party and Third-Party Cookies
First-party cookies are set by the Site itself. Third-party cookies are set by domains other than the one you are visiting. For example, if we use Google Analytics, Google may set cookies on your device. Similarly, if we display advertisements from Google AdSense, Google may set cookies for ad personalization and measurement. We do not control the setting of third-party cookies; you should check the privacy and cookie policies of those third parties for more information.
Session and Persistent Cookies
Session cookies are temporary and are deleted when you close your browser. Persistent cookies remain on your device for a set period or until you delete them manually. The duration varies by cookie; for example, a preference cookie may last for a few months, while an analytics cookie may expire after a shorter period. We do not specify exact durations here because they may change, but you can view the expiry of individual cookies in your browser settings.
Local Storage
In addition to cookies, the Site may use local storage (also known as HTML5 storage) to store data on your device. This is similar to cookies but can store more information and is not automatically sent to the server with every request. We may use local storage to remember your preferences or to cache content for faster loading. Local storage is typically persistent and remains until you clear it through your browser settings.
Your Consent Choices
When you first visit the Site, a cookie banner or preferences panel may appear, asking you to consent to non-essential cookies (such as analytics and advertising cookies). You can accept all, reject all, or customize your preferences. Your choice is stored in an essential cookie so that the banner does not reappear on subsequent visits. You can change your preferences at any time by clicking the 'Cookie Settings' link available in the footer of the Site.
Withdrawal of Optional Consent
If you have previously consented to non-essential cookies, you may withdraw that consent at any time by updating your preferences via the 'Cookie Settings' link. Withdrawing consent will not affect the lawfulness of processing based on consent before its withdrawal. Please note that essential cookies will continue to be used regardless of your preferences.
Browser Controls and Practical Effects of Disabling Cookies
Most web browsers allow you to control cookies through their settings. You can usually choose to block all cookies, block third-party cookies, or delete cookies when you close your browser. However, please be aware that if you disable or refuse cookies, some features of the Site may become unavailable or may not function as intended. For example, essential cookies are required for the Site to remember your cookie preferences, so if you block all cookies, you may see the cookie banner on every visit. Disabling analytics cookies will prevent us from learning how you use the Site, which may hinder our ability to improve it. Disabling advertising cookies will not remove advertisements but may make them less relevant to you.
For more information about how to manage cookies in your browser, visit the help pages of your browser provider (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge). You can also learn more about opting out of Google Analytics at tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout and about Google's advertising cookies at adssettings.google.com.
Changes to This Policy
We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time to reflect changes in technology, legislation, or our practices. Any changes will be posted on this page, and if material, we may notify you via the Site or by email. We encourage you to review this policy periodically.