Guidelines for securing information resources at YMCA Library in Wandegeya

Abstract

The aim of the project was to develop the guidelines for Securing Information Resources at YMCA Library in Wandegeya to ensure safety of information resources. The objectives of the study were to; establish the current status of security for the information resources, find out how security for information resources is managed, identify the challenges in securing information resources and come up with the guidelines for improving the security for information resources at YMCA Library. The study used a case study research design while adopting both qualitative and quantitative research approaches. Interviews and observations were used to collect the information for the study. Purposive and simple random sampling methods were used to select the 4 library staff and 78 library users respectively. The study found out that YMCA Library is strategically with more than 10,000 titles of published and non-published information materials which include; text books, magazines, newspapers, reports, journals. The buildings are firm with all the necessary security features to protect the library resources. The security for the information resources is managed by 4 librarians assisted by 2 intern students from Makerere University. Library users were the students, Staff members, lecturers with the valid IDs in order to access the library resources governed by rules and regulations that are followed by the library users are followed during all the library activities carried out such as borrowing and returning the information resources The challenges were; limited/insufficient library resources for users, selfish interest of the culprits, lack of proper orientation to users, lack of photocopying machines and financial constraint. The suggestions to improve information materials security were; using a CCTV and security personnel, dropping bags at entrance, proper checking of bags and staff, purchase of photocopying machine, and improved cleanliness in the library. The study concluded that there was need to develop the guidelines for ensuring the security of the information resources at YMCA Library. The study recommended the purchase of a good photocopying machine, ensuring stable power supply, strict rules and regulations, orientation of the library users, embracing new technologies, organise user education programs, employing more competent library staff and employing more security personnel.