Assessment of the security systems in selected libraries of higher learning institutions in Zambia.
Date
2022
Authors
Hampwaye, Bestain
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Zambia
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Security issues in libraries include theft of library materials, the mutilation or vandalism of
library resources and dealing with disruptive patrons. Therefore, the purpose of this study was
to investigate security measures implemented to prevent theft of library resources and other
disruptive vices in selected libraries in Zambia. Specifically, the study investigated the types
of security problems being faced by higher learning institutions libraries in Zambia; it also
investigated security measures higher learning institutions libraries have put in place to
mitigate against security problems libraries are facing and assessed the effectiveness of the
security systems used by these libraries. An exploratory study approach was adopted for this
study and employed the qualitative method. A purposive sampling technique was used to select
the respondents. The data elements from selected academic libraries were the librarians’/deputy
librarians, the information systems librarians/IT managers, and circulation librarians. There
were 15 libraries under study and were drawn from three provinces; namely; Lusaka, Central
and Copperbelt provinces. The sample included libraries drawn from both public and private
higher institutions of learning. The basic criteria for selecting libraries was that the institutions
should have fully established libraries manned by personnel with a minimum qualification of
a Bachelor’s degree in library studies (BALIS). A total of 28 participants took part in the study.
The research data was collected using interview guides; an observation checklist and a list of
documents were collected, while data was analyzed thematically. The study revealed
significant differences among higher learning institutions libraries in Zambia in applying the
organizational security measures due to several challenges such as lack of security policies,
incompetent staff and inadequate funds for security systems. However, some libraries have put
in place security measures to protect their resources which include the installation of
surveillance cameras, alarm system, 3M book detection system, generators, training of library
staff and the use of security guards to man higher learning institutions libraries. The findings
further revealed that half of the higher learning institutions libraries surveyed have deployed
technological security measures but require improvement on organizational measures and
maintenance of the security devices. This may be due to the over-emphasis on technology as
the sole solution to security problems in these libraries. Therefore, the study recommended that
security officers should be employed as a security measure since relying on technology alone
will not solve the security problems effectively.
Keywords: Library, security systems; library resources, security measures; information
resources; Zambia
Description
Thesis
Keywords
Book thefts. , Libraries--Security measures. , Libraries--Security systems. , Security systems--Libraries