Collections Security: Planning and Prevention for Libraries and Archives
4 December 2007 – 9:44 amIntroduction
(Volledige tekst: Collections Security: Planning and Prevention for Libraries and Archives)
Many archives and libraries fail to recognize the vulnerability of their collections to loss. Collections can be threatened not just by theft and vandalism, but by disasters (e.g., fire or flood) and damage from careless handling or poor environmental conditions. Any repository seeking to provide the best possible security for its collections must put in place coordinated policies that address all of these threats. Since other leaflets in this series can be consulted for information on disaster planning, environmental control, and proper storage and handling, this leaflet will focus on the problems traditionally associated with collections security: theft and vandalism.
Most library and archives staff members have heard stories describing trusted patrons, other outsiders, or even valued staff who have pilfered collections (for personal gain, to add to private collections, or perhaps for moral or ethical reasons), but many do not believe such things could happen in their repository. While most libraries and archives have basic security policies, universal enforcement can be difficult. Some patrons (and indeed some staff) see security measures as unnecessary inconveniences.
If a security program is to be effective, there must be widespread understanding of the importance of security to the mission of the repository. It seems obvious that missing or damaged collections cannot be made available for use, but too often staff and management do not recognize the occurrence or the effects of theft and vandalism. It is important to understand that while some damage or loss can be alleviated (for example, a stolen journal might be replaced through purchase, books missing in one library may be loaned from another, or missing pages may be photocopied), other materials may be irreplaceable (if the material is unique, rare, or difficult and expensive to replace).
This leaflet will discuss strategies for preventing theft and vandalism of collections, responding to any breach of security that might occur, and creating an effective, universally enforced security plan.
Volledige tekst:
Collections Security: Planning and Prevention for Libraries and Archives
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