Guidelines for improving security of library materials at Lubiri Secondary School

Abstract

The aim of the project was to develop guidelines for Improving Security of Library Materials at Lubiri Secondary School. The objectives of the study were to; establish the current status of security for library materials at Lubiri Secondary School Library, find out how the security for library materials is managed at Lubiri Secondary School Library, identify the challenges in the security of library materials at Lubiri Secondary School Library and come up with the guidelines for improving the security of library materials at Lubiri Secondary School Library. The study used a case study research design while adopting both qualitative and quantitative research approaches. The researcher purposively selected 5 librarians who are responsible with the security of the information materials who participated in the study. Interviews and observations were used to collect the information for the study. The study established that the different information resources in Lubiri Secondary School Library include; text books, magazines, newspapers, reports, journals. The major threats to these information resources were; theft of library materials, vandalism, biological agents (insects), dust and dirty, and non-return of materials. The guidelines suggested to improve the security of library materials at Lubiri Secondary School Library were; using a CCTV and security personnel, dropping bags at entrance, employing personnel moving around in the library, proper checking of bags and staff going round, security men to main the entrance, installation of book detectors and security alarm, more multiple copies of textbook, photocopy machine, and improved cleanliness in the library. The study concluded that there was a need to develop a guideline for enhancing the security of library materials at Lubiri Secondary School to support the librarians in ensuring security for the information resources. The study recommended the staff for Lubiri Secondary School Library to adopt the proposed guidelines for improving security of library materials at Lubiri Secondary School Library.