Privacy Policy

This Privacy Policy explains how Classic Atlas handles information when you use our website. We are committed to protecting your privacy and being transparent about what data is and is not collected. Classic Atlas is designed to be a low-data, privacy-respecting service that allows you to explore classic literature without creating accounts, sharing personal details, or being tracked across the web.

This policy is governed by the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).

Introduction

Classic Atlas is a static, publicly accessible website that provides information about public-domain books and links to external sources such as Project Gutenberg and Goodreads. We do not require users to sign up, log in, or provide identifying information in order to use the site.

Because of this, the amount of personal information we handle is extremely limited. This policy explains what limited data may be collected, how it is used, and what rights you have.

Information We Collect

We do not collect personal information such as your name, email address, phone number, or physical address.

The only information that may be collected falls into two categories:

Anonymous usage data

We may use basic analytics tools (such as Google Analytics or a similar privacy-focused alternative) to understand how the site is used. This may include:

• Pages visited
• Time spent on pages
• Device type (mobile, tablet, desktop)
• Browser type
• Approximate location (country or region, not street address)

This information is aggregated and anonymised. It is used only to understand how people use the site and to improve performance, content, and usability.

Local browser storage

Classic Atlas uses your browser's `localStorage` to remember simple preferences, such as:

• Whether you prefer Discovery Mode or Academic Mode
• Theme or display preferences
• Filter or layout settings

These preferences are stored only on your own device and are never transmitted to our servers.

How We Use Information

Any information collected is used solely to:

• Improve site performance and reliability
• Understand which pages and features are most useful
• Fix errors and usability problems
• Improve content and discovery tools

We do not sell, rent, or share data with advertisers or data brokers. We do not use your information for marketing or profiling.

Cookies and Local Storage

Classic Atlas itself does not use tracking cookies. However, third-party analytics providers may set cookies in your browser to collect anonymous usage statistics.

We also use `localStorage` in your browser to store your preferences. Unlike cookies, this data stays on your device and is not automatically sent back to us.

You can clear or disable cookies and local storage at any time through your browser settings.

Third-Party Services

Classic Atlas links to and integrates with several external services:

• Project Gutenberg for book files
• Goodreads for ratings and popularity data
• Analytics providers to understand site usage

When you click a link to an external site, their privacy policy applies. We do not control how those services collect or use data.

We encourage you to review the privacy policies of any external sites you visit.

Data Retention

We do not store personal data on our servers. Anonymous analytics data is retained according to the policies of the analytics provider and is used only in aggregate form.

Local browser data remains on your device until you clear it.

Children's Privacy

Classic Atlas is suitable for general audiences, including students and young readers. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. Because no accounts or forms exist on the site, there is no mechanism for children to submit personal data.

Your Rights

Under Australian privacy law, you have the right to:

• Access information held about you (if any)
• Request correction of inaccurate information
• Control cookies and browser storage through your device

Because we do not store personal profiles or accounts, most data control is handled directly through your browser.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in technology, law, or our practices. The "last updated" date on this page will indicate when changes were made.

Contact Information

If you have any questions about this policy or privacy on Classic Atlas, you can contact us at: