Anything else is foolish. I'm a big believer in the preview pane, which allows you to view e-mail without opening it. If your current e-mail program doesn't have a preview option, shop around for one that does. It's simple and strong protection against viruses. So if you're hot to send personal messages, get your own e-mail account and send them from home.
Many public libraries offer free e-mail accounts and access to the Internet.
They're your best bet if you want your personal life to remain personal.