Introduction
This Cookie Policy explains how Religion & Theology Archive (the site accessible at the domain toaug.com) uses cookies, web storage, and similar technologies when you visit our catalogue. We believe in clear, honest communication about what data is stored on your device and why. This policy applies to all users of the site, regardless of location.
What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files that a website places on your computer, tablet, or phone when you visit. They are widely used to make websites work efficiently and to provide information to the site owners. Other storage technologies, such as local storage and session storage, may also be used for similar purposes. In this policy, references to "cookies" include these related technologies unless otherwise stated.
Types of Cookies We Use
Essential Cookies
These cookies are necessary for the site to function correctly. They enable core features such as navigating between pages, remembering your session state, and maintaining security. Without these cookies, the site cannot operate properly. Essential cookies are placed automatically when you access the site. They are typically first-party cookies and are session-based (deleted when you close your browser) or persistent (remain for a short period to remember your preferences during a single visit).
Preference Cookies
Where enabled, preference cookies remember choices you make on the site, such as your preferred text size, reading mode (e.g., light or dark theme), or which catalogue view you selected. These cookies improve your experience by tailoring the site to your personal preferences. They are set only if you interact with those features. If you do not use customization options, no preference cookies are stored.
Analytics Cookies
We may use analytics cookies to collect anonymous information about how visitors use the site. This includes which pages are visited most often, how users navigate the catalogue, and whether any technical errors occur. The data is aggregated and does not identify you personally. Analytics cookies are set only if you have consented to them (where a consent mechanism is displayed). We use this information solely to improve the site and understand reader interests.
Advertising Cookies
If the site displays advertisements, advertising cookies may be set by Google and other third-party ad providers. These cookies help deliver ads that are relevant to you, limit the number of times you see an ad, and measure the effectiveness of ad campaigns. They are placed only with your consent (where required). Google may use cookies for personalized advertising, which you can control via Google's Ad Settings. We do not control the specific cookies placed by third parties; please refer to their privacy policies for details.
First-Party and Third-Party Cookies
First-party cookies are set by the site itself (toaug.com). Third-party cookies are set by domains other than the site you are visiting. For example, if we embed content from a third-party service (such as a video player or a social media share button), that service may place its own cookies. Similarly, analytics and advertising providers (such as Google) may set third-party cookies. We do not have direct control over these cookies, but we ensure that any third-party services we use have their own privacy and cookie policies that comply with applicable laws.
Session and Persistent Cookies
Session cookies are temporary and are deleted when you close your browser. They are used to maintain your session as you navigate the site. Persistent cookies remain on your device for a set period (or until you delete them) and are used to remember your preferences and actions across visits. The exact duration of persistent cookies varies by purpose, but we do not set cookies with an expiry longer than necessary for their function.
Local Storage
In addition to cookies, the site may use HTML5 local storage to store data on your device. Local storage is similar to persistent cookies but can hold larger amounts of data. We use local storage only for essential functions, such as saving your reading progress or interface preferences, and only where you have interacted with those features. Local storage data remains on your device until you clear it manually.
Your Choices and Consent
When you first visit the site, a cookie consent banner may be displayed (where required by applicable law). You can choose to accept or decline non-essential cookies. Essential cookies are always set because they are necessary for the site to function. You can withdraw your consent at any time by adjusting your cookie preferences through the settings link provided in the site footer or by using your browser controls.
How to Control Cookies via Your Browser
Most web browsers allow you to control cookies through their settings. You can typically choose to block all cookies, allow only first-party cookies, or delete cookies when you close the browser. Please note that disabling essential cookies may impair the functionality of the site, such as the ability to log in or maintain your reading session. Instructions for managing cookies vary by browser; consult your browser's help section for details.
Practical Effects of Disabling Cookies
If you disable or reject cookies, you can still browse the catalogue and read public-domain ebooks. However, certain features may not work as intended. For example, you may need to re-enter preferences each time you visit, or you may not be able to use interactive tools such as reading notes or personalized bookmarks. Disabling analytics or advertising cookies will not affect the core reading experience.
Updates to This Policy
We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time to reflect changes in technology, legal requirements, or our practices. Any changes will be posted on this page. We encourage you to review this policy periodically.
Contact
If you have questions about this Cookie Policy or our use of cookies, please contact us at [email protected].