Library Security Research Articles

Library Security = Eyes Wide Open

Library Security = Eyes Wide Open

Library security, materials theft and mutilation in technological university libraries in Nigeria

Librarians across the world are increasingly concerned with the safety and physical integrity of valuable intellectual properties. The scenario in developing countries is exacerbated by economic difficulties. A survey of the problem in the Nigerian universities of technology revealed that in common with their traditional counterparts, they are not immune from theft and mutilation. Reference and periodical materials are the most likely materials that will be mutilated. Librarians could neither curb nor stem the problem. All of the libraries still rely solely on manual checks carried out by unskilled personnel at the library entrance and exit. The high cost of photocopying and frequent breakdown of copiers were the causes of library material theft and mutilation. Only 14 per cent of the respondents indicated greediness. There is a compelling need for the Committee of the University Librarians of Nigerian Universities (CULNU) to address the problem and put in place measures that would effectively monitor this crime, or else the Nigerian university libraries will soon be empty.

Zero Tolerance at the Library

Abstract In recent years, even in cities traditionally noted for lower crime rates, libraries have become targets of incidents of problem behavior. These events have escalated alarmingly in their severity, and now range from boisterous complaints, through sending unsolicited gifts, to bomb threats and potential armed assault. This article describes the formation and operation of the Thunder Bay Public Library's Security Task Force, its work with police, the training regimen, procedures and practices it has set in place, and the results of its efforts to reverse an alarming trend.

Library and Archival Security

(1998). Library and Archival Security. Journal of Library Administration: Vol. 25, No. 1, pp. 91-112.

Special Collections Library Security

Special Collections Library Security

Security in libraries: authentication & authorisation and Radio Frequency Identification

The most inspiring ideal of librarianship, embodied in the public library service is of free access to information for all. On the face of it security is part of the more niggardly side of library work, conjuring up images of closed access shelves and books on chains. In practice of course making sure one user does not steal or damage books is essential to guarantee access to the next user. Balancing the two needs for security and open access is a key part of the function of the librarian.

RF‐ID: Miracle or mirage?

The new technology of RF‐ID, intelligent tagging, has become widespread in some industries such as distribution and baggage handling, and is set to dominate retail security in the near future. Library security and automation are tailor‐made applications for it which are ready to roll. What is it and what does it mean for Librarians?

The Use of Electronic Book Theft Detection Systems in Libraries

ABSTRACT The current popular trend in library security is the installation of electronic book theft detection systems to combat the attempted removal of library materials that have not been checked-out at the circulation desk. Although these systems have been reported to deter theft by library patrons, no electronic book theft detection system is foolproof. To rely solely on an electronic system to provide collection security is foolish. To truly ensure the security of a library collection, a total security program is necessary. This program must also address the issue of potential theft of materials by employees.

Delinquent Readers in University Libraries in Ghana

Whenever the issue of delinquent library users is under discussion, primary emphasis is placed on problems concerning library security, book theft and mutilation. Little, however, is said about other delinquent behaviors, such as noise, keeping of overdue materials, and eating in libraries. The aim of this paper is to focus attention on such deviant behavior in university libraries in Ghana. Data were obtained through the use of a questionnaire, distributed to all three of the nation's university libraries. The study found, among other things, that all three libraries have problems with delinquent behaviors, though in varying degrees. Although these problems cannot be solved overnight, the attempt is made to suggest solutions that will contain them, at least to the barest minimum.

State Statutes on Confidentiality of Library Circulation Records

Abstract This work updates Alan Jay Lincoln's 1992 Library & Archival Security article that compiled 26 state statutes concerning the confidentiality of library records. Since that article appeared, several states have enacted confidentiality statutes and five have revised their statutes. The statutes reproduced here complement Lincoln's article. Those statutes included here were either not included in the 1992 article or those states' legislatures have since revised the law.

Campus Crime and Personal Safety in Libraries

As the rate of violent incidents increases on American college and university campuses, academic libraries are exploring ways to protect their staff and patrons. An interdisciplinary review of the literature shows that few authors have devoted attention to library security in higher education. This study surveys the literature in library science, law enforcement, the social sciences, education, and general-interest publications. General and specific crimes are discussed, and suggestions are provided on how academic libraries can improve personal safety. Suggestions include : written emergency procedures, security equipment, and crime prevention staff training, along with safer building design, staff work area rearrangement, more campus involvement in library security, and improved employee/patron communication to ensure a safe, friendly, and pro-library environment.

Security and preservation of the U.S. congressional serial set

Librarians are becoming increasingly concerned about the safety and physical integrity of valuable government documents such as the U.S. Congressional Serial Set. Using a questionnaire to survey 187 government documents collections, the investigators (i) determine current library security practices with regard to the Serial Set, (ii) identify those volumes within the collection that are most likely to be vandalized or stolen, and (iii) make recommendations for the security and preservation of these items. The goal of the study is to give librarians a better awareness of security problems and possible solutions.

Library Security in the UK

Focuses on the situation regarding library crime and security as it appears today in the UK. Discusses common forms of library abuse such as book theft, non‐return of items, theft of property, staff/user abuse and vandalism. Examines recent surveys focusing on library crime and looks at methods of reducing various types of abuse. Concludes that book theft is extensive, as is non‐return of items. Theft of property has been widely reported and external vandalism and book mutilation are also common. However, library counting practices are poor and loss has not been properly defined. Recommends that inventories be improved and loss determined precisely in order to improve the accuracy of statistics collected, making for better evidence on theft; tough legal deterrents be implemented and that authorities should also develop their own definite security policies.

Library Crime and Security in Academic Libraries in Texas

Abstract This paper examines library security and crime patterns in academic libraries of four-year colleges and universities (public and private) in Texas, with enrollments of 1,000 or more students. Sixty-two institutions were surveyed, with thirty-six respondents, a 58 percent return rate. This study provides data on levels of library security maintained in academic libraries in Texas. Findings identify technological systems employed for library security within academic libraries in Texas; compare guidelines for library security policies and procedures; identify annual losses due to crime and disruption; and inventory the resources dedicated to crime prevention. For library administrators wishing to reconsider their security program, this report can facilitate comparison with comparable institutions' policies and procedures, toward the goal of developing guidelines for preventing crime and disruption, thereby ensuring information access in libraries.

The Blumberg Case and Its Implications for Library Security at the Central University Libraries, Southern Methodist University

Abstract This paper, presented to the AMIGOS Spring 1992 Conference in Dallas, TX, in 1992, delineates security measures taken by Southern Methodist University in the aftermath of Stephen Blumberg's book thefts, and discusses the possible consequences of failing to report the theft of valuable library materials in a timely manner.

The Neverending Saga of Library Theft

Abstract Perhaps one of the most condoned of crimes in the community and on campus is mutilation and theft of library materials. The work of artful thieves is costing libraries millions of dollars yearly. The objectives of this paper are to: (1) indicate how monumental the problem of library theft is, (2) to highlight some major perpetrators of library crimc-their personalities and motivations (biographical method) as well as their’ legal defenses when apprehended and prosecuted, (3) to review current research on campus to deter library theft, and (4) to make recommendations on proactive, well planned programs to deter theft and how to react when thefts occur. Highlighted will be studies of “typical” college library Ihieves, good and poor library security programs, and how libraries need to have better theft avoidance techniques.

Security in health service libraries--a survey in North West Thames Region.

My aim is to discuss the results of a survey of health service libraries in North West Thames Region undertaken in November 1990 as part of a more detailed study of library security. Widely varying patterns of losses were discovered. The ways in which librarians have tried to resolve these problems are described and a number of possible solutions are proposed. A brief review of the literature is also included.

Library Security, Book Theft and Mutilation

This paper is a study of book theft, mutilation and security measures in university libraries in Ghana. Data were obtained through the use of a questionnaire distributed to all the three university libraries in Ghana. It was found that although all the librarians acknowledge that book theft and mutilation exist in their libraries, most of them do not know the extent of these activities as there are no readily available records. Various preventive measures adopted by the university libraries are discussed and further measures to be adopted are recommended.

Managing Microcomputer Security

This article takes a broad look at the issue of microcomputer security in academic and other libraries, focusing on the problem of computer viruses. It describes an infestation of viruses on CD-ROM workstations that spread itself through downloading to floppy discs. The possibility that the infection of library computers was a willful act is suggested. Actions taken by the reference department, the library, the library system and the university computing center are detailed. Three levels of practical security measures are outlined and considerations for different library environments are discussed. Librarians are urged to take a more active role in planning for the introduction of computing technology.

List of the Members who have Donated their Library Security to the Library from January 1990 to October 1991

List of the Members who have Donated their Library Security to the Library from January 1990 to October 1991