Cameras in the Bathrooms in Iowa Libraries?

I didn't know cameras were allowed in bathrooms?

Good news if you've ever gone to the bathroom at an Iowa City library. The cameras are being removed.

via GIPHY

You don't know what you didn't know until you know, ya know? So, I didn't know they even had cameras. Did you?

I guess I can try and understand the 'camera on the side of caution' perspective in case of vandalism and theft. However, when I think of the privacy issue here, let's just say I don't feel the most comfortable with the idea that what I do in the bathroom can be seen by others. Not because of I (or anyone else for that matter, has anything to hide), but because it's just a violation of privacy.

For instance, I can think of numerous times I've had to nurse my babies when they were younger, in the bathroom, because of a great lack of breastfeeding friendly, supportive places. I know that I wouldn't want that awkward experience to be videoed for someone to see.

According to WQAD.com,

"Television station KCRG reports the cameras were removed before Gov. Terry Branstad signed legislation Thursday that bars Iowa governmental entities from installing monitoring devices in public bathrooms, locker rooms or showers. The law provides an exception for hospital bathrooms.

The legislation was prompted by privacy concerns. In January the American Civil Liberties Union of Iowa called on Iowa City officials to remove the cameras, which recorded common areas of the restrooms."