FBI seizes library computers

Slashdot has a thread today discussing an article in a Maryland online newspaper, reporting that the FBI seized a computer from a library:

"Two FBI agents walked into a public library in Maryland, without a warrant, and walked out with two computers. The library director agreed to release the machines to these smooth-talking feds. According to the article, the director of Frederick County Public Libraries indicated that this was the third time in his 10 years there that the FBI had requested records, but the first time they had come without a court order. The director seemed to indicate no regrets, stating 'It was a decision I made on my experience and the information given to me.' He further justified his actions, noting that the agents indicated specific computers they needed (of the several dozen in the library) and further that they 'had an awful lot of information.'"

I frankly don't know the law in this regard, but whether or not the agents "had information" or not, I believe they should have had a court order to carry out a seizure. The libertarian in me shudders at this kind of power play.